Two emails in response. The second I find more convincing than the first. But the first certainly isn’t without merit:

Reader A:

I used quotation marks around “amnesty” because I don’t think that’s really what it is and that conservative opponents have succeeded in calling anything short of victory (variously defined) as “amnesty.” Read up some more, kid. The mysterious “Z” visa would make everyone here since January 1, 2007 (!) legal immediately. So please remove the ” ” from amnesty, because that’s what it is. Jonah, you’re one of my favorite commentators. Please don’t be on the wrong side of this issue.

Reader B:

In 1974, President Ford established a program of relief for those who avoided the military draft during the Vietnam War. It required up to 24 months of alternative service and the signing of a broad oath of allegiance to the United States. Because of the punitive measures and the repugnant idea of signing an “oath of allegiance”, most draft dodgers refused to participate and boycotted the Ford program. Therefore, in 1977, President Carter, hell-bent on welcoming draft dodgers back to the US, established a program that granted “unconditional” amnesty to most draft dodgers and provided an easily obtainable “less than honorable” discharge for military deserters and AWOL’s.
Approving initial requirements to get a bill passed and then changing those requirements afterward is a well-worn political tactic. This immigration bill may not be a pure amnesty bill right now, but it will be – especially when the new democratic administration takes over the presidency

Update: From reader C:

Jonah, I think most of your points are valid, especially the tin ear of the White House. BUT you give the impression— although I know you know better – that its only the Republican base that’s against amnesty ( by the way I don’t think you need to put quotes on it; the “penalties aren’t serious or really relevant they’re token, wavable and irrelevant to the line jumping law breaking culture that we really don’t need more of ). MOST of the American public are against rewarding illegal immigration — especially those who have come here legally obeying the rules. Its insulting to them. I’ve talked to some. Plus those who come to the US that way are not the most desirable new citizens. Look at the rallies with the Mexican flags and the angry Raza demands. This bill is bad for the Country, bad for the Republican party. It profits only Dems and lawbreakers. Its a no brainer. Sad if we can’t enforce our laws but that’s no reason to make it legitimate and well, misfeasance if a firable offence.