Opponents of immigration restrictions have lined up against President Trump’s most recent proposal to expand the “public charge” rule, which limits entry, visa renewal, or access to green cards for immigrants likely to receive certain forms of public assistance. But their reflexive opposition to the president on immigration is blinding them to a real opportunity to advance their goals, if they’re willing to seek common ground.

One of the best ways to boost support for increasing legal immigration is to improve public confidence that when immigrants come here, it is to work, not for a free ride. The fact is, many Americans believe the United States’ generous government assistance and welfare benefits are attracting immigrants for the wrong reasons. Policy that chips away at this common argument is a positive step in building public support for the kind of legal immigration that strengthens our economy.