Posted on 03/10/2008 3:40:27 PM PDT by SmithL
House Republicans are trying to force action on a Democratic-written immigration enforcement measure, the latest GOP attempt to elevate the volatile issue into an election-year wedge.
Republican leaders hope that by pushing the bill — endorsed by 48 centrist Democrats and 94 Republicans — they can drive Democrats into a politically painful choice: Backing a tough immigration measure that could alienate their base, including Hispanic voters, or being painted as soft on border security in conservative-leaning districts.
The plan is fraught with political risks for both parties. A full-blown immigration debate could call attention to Republicans' divisions at a time when their expected presidential nominee, Sen. John McCain, is fighting to gain the trust of the GOP base.
McCain, R-Ariz., played a prominent role in failed legislative efforts to grant some of the estimated 12 million illegal immigrants already here a path to legal status, which conservatives deride as "amnesty." He now says he would consider such a plan only after the borders have been fortified.
House Republicans are eyeing a bill by Rep. Heath Shuler, D-N.C., that would do just that, as well as mandate that employers verify that their workers are in the U.S. legally.
Leaders are expected later this week to use a parliamentary tactic that would eventually force a vote on the measure if 218 lawmakers — a majority of the House — demand it. Republicans are pressuring Democratic backers of the measure — including several first-termers and dozens from swing districts, all facing tough re-election fights — to defy their leaders and sign the petition.
"Lots of Republicans and lots of Democrats would like to see something done," Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., the No. 2 whip, said Friday.
The move would be a rebuke to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.,
(Excerpt) Read more at sfgate.com ...
A "wedge" issue is any issue where the American electorate strongly favors the Republican position. One must never mention "wedge" issues. It's just wrong to do so. Meanspirited, even.
Illegal immigration is truly the most important issue in the U.S., and I truly hope that this legislation succeeds! Republicans in Congress, grow some political spines, and then, keep them intact on all of the issues from now on!
McCain wants to fortify the borders apparently to keep the amnestied illegals in.
btt
With the three democrat choices for POTUS, start learning spanish.
Please visit NumbersUSA and see how they manage legislation through voter faxes. It’s simple, on point and you can even add your own personalized message. A fax takes less than 15 seconds to go over, add to and send.
And to Sen. John McCain, R-Arizona...
And the MSM is doing their part to keep the volatile make-or-break issue out of the daily political lexicon.
Translation: the latest cynical attempt by the GOP to pander to it's base during an election year.
Except the bill is from a Democrat (a DINO, mind you...)
They will boldly vote for it, knowing Bush will veto it. Therefore, nothing will be done asnd they can point fingers at someone else.
McCain could introduce or support such legislation right now, in stead of waiting for the election.
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