Immigration bill survives Cornyn amendment

The Hill ^ | 6/6/07 | Klaus Marre

[Jean S]

The frail coalition that is shepherding an immigration bill toward final passage in the Senate withstood another attack on its compromise language Wednesday, fighting off a possible “poison pill” amendment from Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas).

The amendment would have restricted the number of illegal immigrants eligible to remain in the country. It was defeated 51-46 when Republican Sens. Larry Craig (Idaho), Pete Domenici (N.M.), Lindsey Graham (S.C.), Chuck Hagel (Neb.), Jon Kyl (Ariz.), Richard Lugar (Ind.), Mel Martinez (Fla.), John McCain (Ariz.), Arlen Specter (Pa.) and George Voinovich (Ohio) voted with the majority of Democrats to defeat the language.

Instead, the Senate passed a similar, narrower amendment that would prevent some criminals, including sex offenders and some gang members, from becoming legal residents.

[Molly T.]

How about we call their offices tomorrow and leave a message, letting them know what a bunch of sell out traitors they are...I have a thought there are a few who already know they will not be running for re election...but who already have feathered or are in the process, of feathering their nest in one way or another..we will no doubt see several turn into lobbyist's...however they do it, these turncoats are getting or are promised a real cushy reward.

[Cacique]

If 23% support, I suppose that 77% oppose. Right?

[WOSG]

“I will vote for a jackass if the GOP runs this joke.”

So it seems you will get the choice in the election between two jackasses.

... Any chance of a primary election challenger to Graham? Can Ravenal jump in?

[PaRepub07]

“watch”, they might try and ram it though the house quickly. Another, cute little trick.

[CT]

Poison Pill 'amendment.'

The poison is in its current form, and it will prove fatal for our dear country if it passes, or if some tyrant should try and adopt it over our heads.