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Rep. Rivera Introduces a Bill Giving Military-Serving Illegal Immigrants Legal Status

Friday, January 27, 2012, 10:55 AM EST

Rep. David Rivera
Rep. David Rivera (R-Florida) introduced a bill that would give a path to citizenship exclusively to young people who served in the military.  Rivera's plan, Adjusted Residency for Military Service Act-the ARMS Act, is a military-only variation of the DREAM Act.

Administrative Amnesty Could Dismiss 1 in 7 Deportation Cases

Monday, January 23, 2012, 1:20 PM EST

U.S. Immigration officials are testing new protocols which give them discretion to use deferred action and/or parole to provide an administrative amnesty for illegal aliens. According to a report by CNN, 14% of the nearly 12,000 cases reviewed thus far in Baltimore and

Rick Santorum Opposes Catholic Bishops Amnesty Plan

Wednesday, December 14, 2011, 1:38 PM EST

Rick Santorum
Republican Presidential Hopeful Rick Santorum criticized the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops during an interview on Iowa public television on Monday. The USCCB have lobbied Congress for amnesty

NAFBPO Calls for New Immigration Policy to be Rescinded

Tuesday, August 30, 2011, 3:51 PM EST

The National Association of Former Border Patrol Officers (NAFBPO) released a statement early last week voicing their opposition to President Obama's plan to individually review the deportation cases of 300,000 illegal aliens. The plan will permit hundreds of thousands of illegal

Obama Official: Illegal Aliens Will Receive Work Permits

Friday, August 19, 2011, 9:03 AM EST

Pres. Obama
According to a Wall Street Journal report, illegal aliens will be eligible to receive work permits if their deportation is deferred through the Obama Administration's new policy. Yesterday, the Administration announced that the Department of

Pres. Obama Calls for Amnesty at La Raza Conference

Monday, July 25, 2011, 5:13 PM EST

Pres. Obama
Pres. Obama made a renewed call for a mass amnesty on Monday while speaking at the National Council of La Raza's annual convention. Pres. Obama told the crowd that he would continue to fight for amnesty, but he would need help since he was working with a Congress that is pro-enforcement.

Sen. Sessions: New DREAM Act is Worse than Before

Friday, July 1, 2011, 11:00 AM EST

Sen. Jeff Sessions
Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.), who serves on the Senate Judiciary Committee, has issued a statement highlighing 10 things Americans need to know about the newly introduced DREAM Act. On Tuesday, the Senate Immigration Subcommittee held its first ever hearing on the DREAM Act,

DREAM Act Amnesty Re-Introduced by Sen. Durbin

Friday, June 24, 2011, 12:27 PM EST

Sen. Dick Durbin
Sen. DIck Durbin (D-Ill.) has re-introduced the DREAM Act Amnesty that would offer legal status for millions of illegal aliens. The DREAM Act passed through the House during last year's lame-duck session, but was defeated during a procedural vote in the Senate.

DREAM Act Introduced in the House and Senate; Sen. Lugar not a Co-Sponsor

Thursday, May 12, 2011, 12:00 PM EST

Sen. Durbin
In coordination with Pres. Barack Obama's renewed call for a mass amnesty, Senator Dick Durbin along with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid have re-introduced the DREAM Act Amnesty. Rep. Howard Berman also re-introduced the bill in the House of Representatives.

Judicial Watch Sues DHS for Failure to Produce Information Regarding Administrative Amnesty Plan

Wednesday, March 30, 2011, 11:34 AM EST

Judicial Watch has filed two Freedom of Information lawsuits against the Department of Homeland Security regarding memos that surfaced last year detailing ways the Obama Administration could provide a mass amnesty without Congressional action.

Congressional Republicans Promise to Oppose Amnesty, Go on Offense in 2011

Friday, December 24, 2010, 1:30 PM EST

In response to President Obama’s call for action next year on the DREAM Act and so-called comprehensive immigration reform, House and Senate Republican leaders said they would oppose any attempt to amnesty illegal aliens, according to the Washington Post.

VICTORY: Senate Votes Down the DREAM Act Amnesty

Saturday, December 18, 2010, 3:24 PM EST

After this morning's Senate defeat of the DREAM Act, NumbersUSA President said "we look forward to moving aggressively to offense." After the House passed the DREAM Act last week with 18 votes to spare, the Senate was unable to reach the 60-vote threshold needed to open debate on the bill this morni

American Legion Urges Senate to Oppose DREAM Act

Friday, December 10, 2010, 10:41 AM EST

The American Legion sent a letter to the U.S. Senate urging them to oppose the DREAM Act Amnesty, saying the bill rewards crime.

Congress Ready to Vote on DREAM Act Amnesty

Wednesday, December 8, 2010, 8:11 AM EST

With just a few days left in the 111th Congress, both chambers are expected to vote on the DREAM Act Amnesty today. On Tuesday, the House Rules Committee passed a "same-day" rule that will allow a same-day vote on bills brought to the floor.

November Jobless Rate up to 9.8%; DREAM Act Would Add up to 2.1 Million Workers to Job Market

Friday, December 3, 2010, 8:36 AM EST

The jobless rate inched up in November to 9.8% after settling at 9.6% for the past several months. The jobless rate for most vulnerable groups of U.S. citizens and legal immigrants all increased in November.

Sen. Sessions Urges Fellow Senators to Oppose the DREAM Act

Thursday, December 2, 2010, 11:34 AM EST

Sen. Jeff Sessions
Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.), who also serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, wrote a letter to his Senate colleagues urging them to oppose the DREAM Act. In his letter, Sen.

Rep. Steve King Requests Cost Analysis of the DREAM Act

Thursday, December 2, 2010, 7:38 AM EST

Rep. Steve King
Ranking Member of the House Immigration Subcommittee Steve King (R-Iowa) is requesting a release of the Congressional Budget Office's score of the DREAM Act. The CBO analyzes the potential cost or savings of bills offered in Congress. Rep. King says the DREAM Act could cost as much as $20 billion.

Senate Republicans Vow to Oppose Cloture on DREAM Act until Votes on Essential Business Occur

Wednesday, December 1, 2010, 12:47 PM EST

Senate Minority Leader McConnell
All 42 Members of the Senate Republican Caucus delivered a letter to Majority Leader Harry Reid stating that they will not vote for cloture on any piece of legislation until the Senate has approved funding for the federal government and addressed the tax cuts set to expire at the end of the year.

Update: Senate DREAM Act Vote Could Come as Early as Saturday

Updated Wednesday, December 1, 2010, 11:00 AM EST

Senate Majority Leader Reid is expected to file a cloture motion on Thursday, December 2nd for the DREAM Act Amnesty, meaning a vote could come as early as Saturday if a weekend session is held.

Rep. Lamar Smith's Op-Ed Highlights How Hispanic Vote Did Not Shift Against Anti-Amnesty Candidates

Monday, November 29, 2010, 11:18 AM EST

In an op-ed published by the Washington Post this past weekend, Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas), who will likely become the Chair of the House Judiciary Committee in the next Congress, detailed the support Republican House candidates received from Hispanic voters during the recent mid-term elections.

Pres. Obama Calls for DREAM Act Vote During Lame-Duck Session

Tuesday, November 16, 2010, 8:57 PM EST

Pres. Obama
After meeting with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus on Tuesday afternoon, the White House released a statement expressing Pres. Obama's desire for passage of the DREAM Act before the 111th Congress adjourns at the end of the year.

Report Says No DREAM Act Vote in First Week of Lame-Duck Session

Saturday, November 13, 2010, 11:43 AM EST

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer
A report from Politico.com says that the Democratic House Leadership will not hold a vote on the DREAM Act Amnesty bill during the first week of the lame-duck session. Reports from earlier this week said otherwise. The House convenes on Monday, November 15.

Kirk's Win in Illinois Improves Chance of Defeating DREAM Act During Lame-Duck Session

Thursday, November 4, 2010, 1:00 PM EST

Mark Kirk
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has made no secret that he plans on bringing the DREAM Act up for a vote during the lame-duck session that begins on Nov. 15, but Mark Kirk's Senate win in Illinois will make passage of the bill a bit more difficult.

Senators Question DHS About Dismissed Immigration Cases in Houston

Friday, October 22, 2010, 2:32 PM EST

Sen. John Cornyn
Seven U.S. Senators sent a letter to DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano asking for answers about a recent investigation conducted by the Houston Chronicle that found a dramatic increase of dismissed immigration cases.

Discouraged Pro-Amnesty Groups Turn Their Focus To Local Level

Monday, October 11, 2010, 2:12 PM EST

2006 May Day March in Los Angeles
The Pro-Amnesty, Open-Border groups are trying a new approach in spreading their message according to a new article published by USA Today.

DREAM Act Listed as One of 20 Legislative Priorities for Lame-Duck Session

Tuesday, September 28, 2010, 3:36 PM EST

Sen. Reid
With control of Congress in jeopardy, Senate Democratic Leaders are preparing to push 20 pieces of legislation to the floor for a vote during the lame-duck session that would start after the November elections.

Sen. Durbin to Bring DREAM Act Amnesty to Senate Floor

Wednesday, September 22, 2010, 11:09 PM EST

Sen. Durbin
Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) said that he will bring the DREAM Act to the Senate floor so it will be ready for a vote as a stand alone bill or as an amendment to another bill.

Sen. Voinovoich Says 'No' to Defense Bill if it Contains Dream Act

Tuesday, September 21, 2010, 12:52 PM EST

Sen. Voinovoich
Sen. George Voinovoich (R-Ohio) said he'll oppose Tuesday's vote to proceed with the Defense Authorization bill if the Dream Act is offered as an amendment to the bill. Sen. Voinovoich opposed Dream in 2007, but did vote in favor of the mass amnesty bill.

Sen. Collins To Vote No on Defense Bill with the Dream Act Amendment Unless Rules are Changed

Tuesday, September 21, 2010, 11:29 AM EST

Sen. Collins
Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) said on Tuesday morning that she will oppose a cloture motion that would begin debate on the Defense Authorization bill unless Majority Leader Harry Reid is willing to open up the debate of the bill.

Senators Expressing Opposition to DREAM Act Amendment to Defense Bill

Thursday, September 16, 2010, 12:10 PM EST

Sen. Ben Nelson
Several Senators have come out and expressed their opposition to Harry Reid's decision to amend the Dept. of Defense Authorization bill with the DREAM Act Amnesty. Sen. Reid is hoping to bring the Amnesty bill up for a floor vote early next week, but he'll need at least 60 votes for passage.

Sen. Menendez to Offer Mass Amnesty Bill in Senate

Wednesday, September 15, 2010, 12:37 PM EST

Sen. Menendez
There are a number of reports indicating that Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) will offer a mass amnesty bill in the Senate before the end of the month. The reports come just a day after Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said he will try to add the DREAM Act Amnesty to the Dept.

Vote Scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Today; Call your Senators NOW!

Wednesday, September 15, 2010, 8:30 AM EST

A vote that would begin debate on the Defense Authorization bill will be at 2:30 p.m. today. The Dream Act Amnesty will either be part of this bill or included as an amendment. CALL YOUR SENATORS NOW and urge them to oppose the DREAM Act! The number for the Capitol switchboard is (202) 224-3121.

ICE Refuses to Deport 'Non-Violent' Illegal Aliens

Friday, August 27, 2010, 11:00 AM EST

In a major policy shift, Immigration and Customs Enforcement has issued new guidelines regarding the prosecution of deportation cases: if an illegal alien is not a convicted criminal or terrorist threat, the case should be dropped.

62% of Americans Disapprove of Pres. Obama's Handling of Immigration

Friday, August 13, 2010, 8:11 AM EST

Pres. Obama
A new Gallup Poll reveals that only 29% of Americans approve of Pres. Obama's handling of the immigration issue. Sixty-two percent of Americans disapprove of the President's handling of the issue.

UPDATE: USCIS Memo Details Obama Administration Plan for Executive Action Amnesty

Thursday, July 29, 2010, 11:21 PM EST

A newly revealed memo, obtained by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) who is leading the fight against amnesty, shows Obama Administration officials offering a detailed plan that would offer actual or de facto amnesty to millions of illegal aliens without Congress ever taking a vote.

Rep. Lamar Smith Responds to Wednesday's Immigration Subcommittee Hearing

Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 4:02 PM EST

Rep. Lamar Smith
Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee issued a response on Wednesday to the Immigration Subcommittee's hearing on the Ethical Imperative for Reform of our Immigration System. Members from the subcommittee listened to testimony from mostly pro-Amnesty religious leaders.

Reclaim American Jobs Caucus Responds to Pres. Obama's Call for Amnesty

Thursday, July 1, 2010, 12:04 PM EST

Reps. Lamar Smith, Sue Myrick, and Gary Miller
Pres. Obama delivered a 30-minute speech to approximately 250 Pro-Amnesty supporters at American University in Washington, D.C. today, calling for 'comprehensive immigration reform' with a mass amnesty.

Obama Leads New Charge On Amnesty

Wednesday, June 30, 2010, 10:28 AM EST

Pres. Obama
Pres. Obama will follow up two consecutive days of meetings about immigration reform with a speech at American University on Thursday on the topic. On Tuesday, Pres. Obama met with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus a day after he met with Pro-Amnesty supporters on Monday.

Thank You for Sending 200,013 faxes Since Tuesday! Sign Petition to Pres. Obama NOW!

Updated Thursday, June 24, 2010, 7:52 PM EST

Thank you for sending more than 200,000 faxes to Congress and the White House since Tuesday! We have now posted a petition, urging Pres. Obama to abandon his plans for an Amnesty through Executive Actions.

Senators Challenge Pres. Obama on Rumors of Amnesty Through Executive Actions

Updated Wednesday, June 23, 2010, 10:58 AM EST

DHS Sec. Janet Napolitano
Several Senators have learned of a possible plan by the Obama Administration that would provide a mass Amnesty for the nation's 11-18 million illegal aliens. Led by Sen.

Democratic Leaders Look to Toughen Up on Immigration, but Goal of a Mass Amnesty Remains the Same

Thursday, June 10, 2010, 10:55 AM EST

Pres. Barack Obama
A new report from Politico.com exposes a possible shift of the rhetoric used by the Democratic Leadership when speaking on the issue of illegal immigration.

Rep. Lamar Smith Calls DREAM Act a "Nightmare"

Monday, May 17, 2010, 12:11 PM EST

In a recent The Hill op-ed, Representative Lamar Smith derided the DREAM Act amnesty bill, calling it a "nightmare" and a "dual assault on law-abiding, taxpaying American citizens and legal immigrants."

Congressional Hispanic Caucus Divided Over Timing of Amnesty Bill

Tuesday, May 11, 2010, 10:17 AM EST

Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus are divided over the timing of an Amnesty bill in Congress.

USA Today/Gallup Poll Reveals Americans Want Tighter Border Security

Wednesday, May 5, 2010, 12:50 PM EST

A new USA Today/Gallup poll reveals that two-thirds of Americans want the federal government to do a better job of securing the border. Eighty-four percent of Americans worry that illegal immigration strains social services, and 77% believe that illegal aliens drive down wages.

Pres. Obama Downplays Immigration Reform in 2010

Thursday, April 29, 2010, 11:52 AM EST

Pres. Barack Obama
Pres. Obama met briefly with reporters last night and said there might not be "the appetite" for immigration reform this year. His comments came on the same day the Senate Democrats circulated an Amnesty proposal.

Graham and Napolitano Debate Border Security at Senate Hearing

Wednesday, April 28, 2010, 8:00 AM EST

During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing yesterday, Sen. Lindsey Graham, who is the lone Republican working on an Amnesty bill, and DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano debated the nation's efforts to secure the Southwest border. Sen.

Sen Sessions: 'American People Dubious of Immigration Reform Talk'

Thursday, April 22, 2010, 3:09 PM EST

Sen. Jeff Sessions
Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.), who serves as the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued a statement today, critical of recent suggestions that the Senate may take up immigration reform in the coming months. Sen.

Rep. Lamar Smith Highlights Fiscal Impacts of Illegal Immigration

Friday, April 16, 2010, 11:29 AM EST

Rep. Lamar Smith
In honor of yesterday's federal income tax filing deadline, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) wrote a column for The Hill and the Daily Caller, highlighting the high fiscal costs of illegal immigration and the impacts on American taxpayers.

New Study Finds that Amnesty Won't Hurt or Help Economy; But Impact on Population not Considered

Thursday, April 8, 2010, 9:39 AM EST

A new study conducted by the Public Policy Institute of California finds that immigration reform won't hurt or help the economy. The study finds that offering an amnesty to the nation's 11-18 million illegal aliens won't improve their individual financial situations.

Sen. Graham Says NO Amnesty This Year

Friday, March 26, 2010, 11:51 AM EST

Sen. Lindsey Graham
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who has been working on a comprehensive amnesty bill with Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and President Obama, has said that there will be no chance of immigration reform this year.

Sen. Schumer Says No Chance for Amnesty Despite Pres. Obama's Call for it During State of the Union

Wednesday, January 25, 2012, 12:30 PM EST

Sen. Chuck Schumer
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), who serves as the chairman of the Senate Immigration Subcommittee, said there's no chance that a mass amnesty can be passed in 2012. Pres. Obama called for passage of Comprehensive Immigration Reform and the DREAM Act during Tuesday night's State of the Union address.

Gingrich Hammers Romney For Opposing Amnesty & 'Pandering to Hardliners' as Romney Accepts Kobach Endorsement

Friday, January 13, 2012, 3:56 PM EST

Newt Gingrich
In an interview with the Miami Herald,  Presidential contender New Gingrich attacked his chief opponent, Mitt Romney, for his total opposition to giving permanent work permits to long-term illegal aliens.  Gingrich also said that conservatives have generally been drawn to his "humane" a

DHS Deportation Figures Offer Mixed Results

Tuesday, October 18, 2011, 3:32 PM EST

On Tuesday, the Department of Homeland Security released new figures showing that the federal government deported a record number of illegal aliens in 2011. Nearly 400,000 illegal aliens were sent home, most of which had been convicted of crimes. However, not everyone is buying those numbers.

Rep. Smith Calls New Obama Administration Policy an Amnesty

Monday, August 22, 2011, 2:27 PM EST

Rep. Lamar Smith
Appearing on a San Antonio radio station, House Judiciary Chairman Lamar Smith made clear what he thinks of the Obama Administration's new policy to prioritize deportation cases, allowing non-criminal illegal aliens to stay in the country and apply for work permits. Rep. Smith

Obama Administration Pledges to Reduce Deportations

Thursday, August 18, 2011, 3:25 PM EST

Pres. Obama
The Obama Administration announced on Thursday that it will individually review the 300,000 cases of illegal aliens currently holding deportation orders in an effort to appease his pro-amnesty critics and last year's record number of deportations.

Rep. Lamar Smith and Sen. David Vitter Introduce Legislation to Stop Administrative Amnesties

Wednesday, July 13, 2011, 5:06 PM EST

Rep. Smith and Sen. Vitter
House Judiciary Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas) and Sen. David Vitter (R-La.) have introduced the Hinder the Administration's Legalization Temptation (HALT) Act to prevent the abuse of the Administration's authority over immigration enforcement. The Administration has discussed

Rep. Smith to Introduce Legislation Preventing Obama Administration from Offering Administrative Amnesty

Tuesday, June 28, 2011, 3:03 PM EST

Rep. Lamar Smith
House Judiciary Chairman Lamar Smith is finalizing legislation that would prevent the Obama Administration from offering amnesty to millions of illegal aliens through deferred action or parole. The notion of an administrative amnesty first surfaced through leaked internal memos last

Report Says La Raza's Federal Funding Doubled Since VP's Appointment to the White House

Monday, June 20, 2011, 7:57 AM EST

According to Judicial Watch, federal funding for the National Council of La Raza has doubled in the years since Pres. Barack Obama appointed former NCLR Vice President Cecilia Munoz as White House Director of Intergovernmental Affairs. Since joining the Administration in 2009, La Raza's funding has

Judiciary Chairman Lamar Smith Calls Utah Amnesty "Illegal"

Tuesday, April 19, 2011, 11:55 AM EST

In a letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep. Lamar Smith (R-TX) has branded Utah's guest worker amnesty "illegal."

Reid Confident Congress Can Still Pass an Amnesty

Thursday, January 20, 2011, 10:18 AM EST

Sen. Harry Reid
In an appearance on Face to Face with Jon Ralston on the NBC affiliate in Reno, Nev., Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said the prospects of passing a mass amnesty are positive. Reid lists passing a mass amnesty as one of his top priorities for the 112th Congress.

UPDATE: Obama, Congressional Hispanic Caucus Discuss Ways to Shut Down Enforcement Legislation

Updated Wednesday, December 22, 2010, 10:18 AM EST

Pres. Barack Obama
President Barack Obama and members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus met at the White House yesterday to discuss the bleak future of immigration reform in Congress.

Sen. Sessions: 10 Reasons to Oppose DREAM Act

Friday, December 17, 2010, 12:01 PM EST

Sen. Jeff Sessions
Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Senator Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.), is urging his Senate colleagues to oppose the DREAM Act Amnesty bill that will come up for a vote on Saturday in the Senate. Sen.

Senate DREAM Act Vote Set for Thursday - Call the Senate!

Wednesday, December 8, 2010, 8:11 PM EST

The Senate is expected to take up the DREAM Act on Thursday morning (12/9). Please call the Senate and ask for a no vote on the DREAM Act - (202) 224-3121. Go to the jump page to see a list of ten undecided Senators.

White House Steps up DREAM Pressure; Focuses on Key Republican Senators

Friday, December 3, 2010, 3:11 PM EST

The White House is reaching out to fence-sitting Republican Senators trying to earn their vote on the DREAM Act. A new report from the National Journal says that members of the President's cabinet are targeting Sens. Collins and Snowe from Maine, Sen. LeMieux of Florida, and Sen.

CIS Estimates DREAM Act Would Cost American Taxpayers $6.2 Billion Per Year

Friday, December 3, 2010, 8:03 AM EST

The Center for Immigration Studies says passage of the DREAM Act would cost American taxpayers at least $6.2 billion per year. According to CIS, at least 1.2 million illegal aliens would enroll in public colleges and universities, qualifying for in-state tuition rates.

Sen. Vitter Criticizes DREAM Act; Requests CBO Score

Thursday, December 2, 2010, 11:10 AM EST

Sen. David Vitter
Sen. David Vitter (R-La.) contacted the Congressional Budget Office today requesting a score of either the House version of the DREAM Act (H.R.1751) or the most recent Senate version (S.3992). Sen.

Sen. Sessions: 'The American People Did Not Vote for Amnesty'

Wednesday, December 1, 2010, 1:32 PM EST

Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee Jeff Sessions spoke out this morning about the possibility of the DREAM Act Amnesty coming to the floor of the Senate. In his statement, Sen.

DREAM Act Vote Still on the Horizon; Keep the Pressure on Congress!

Wednesday, December 1, 2010, 11:20 AM EST

The House has adjourned for the week, and your phone calls and faxes have kept the DREAM Act off the floor for another week! Time is running out on the 111th Congress, but this is still a top priority for both the House and Senate Leadership.

REPORT: Reid to Schedule Vote on the DREAM Act

Tuesday, November 30, 2010, 4:32 PM EST

Sen. Reid
The Washington Post is reporting that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is ready to schedule a test vote on the DREAM Act even though he's not yet sure if he has enough votes to pass the amnesty legislation.

House Democratic Leaders Could Attach DREAM Act to Republican Immigration Bill

Thursday, November 18, 2010, 7:46 AM EST

Rep. Fortenberry
According to a letter written by Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.), House Democratic Leadership is thinking of attaching the DREAM Act Amnesty bill to an immigration-related bill he introduced.

DREAM Act Still on the Agenda for Lame-Duck Session

Tuesday, November 16, 2010, 11:40 AM EST

Congress won't be voting on the DREAM Act before Thanksgiving, but that doesn't mean it's off the agenda for the lame-duck session that started this past Monday. Leaders from the Congressional Hispanic Caucus will meet with Pres.

Pelosi Considering DREAM Act Vote in the House

Thursday, November 11, 2010, 10:31 AM EST

Rep. Nancy Pelosi
Sources within the Democratic Party are saying that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wants a vote on the DREAM Act during the lame-duck session, and it could be as soon as next week.

Pope Benedict Says Nations Have the Right to Secure their Borders

Tuesday, October 26, 2010, 1:02 PM EST

Pope Benedict XVI
Pope Benedict XVI reiterated the Catholic church's position on immigration, saying that nations have the right to regulate the flow of migrants and secure their borders. His comment is consistent with what the church has said in the past, but contradicts the position of the U.S.

'Backdoor Amnesty' Possibly Being Evidenced in Houston

Monday, October 18, 2010, 5:20 PM EST

While the Department of Homeland Security and the Obama Administration have been promoting the increased number of deportations of criminal illegal aliens, they've quietly been executing an administrative amnesty that first came to light over the summer.

Sen. Menendez Offers Mass Amnesty Bill in the Senate

Thursday, September 30, 2010, 1:22 PM EST

Sen. Menendez
Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) has introduced a mass amnesty bill in the Senate just before the chamber adjourns for its pre-election recess. The Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2010 (S.3932) contains just one original cosponsor, Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.).

Rep. Gutierrez Pushing for DREAM Act Vote in Senate

Monday, September 27, 2010, 2:50 PM EST

Rep. Luis Gutierrez
Rep. Luis Gutierrez (D-Ill.) is hitting the campaign trail for Majority Leader Harry Reid this week, and the House's leading Amnesty supporter is hoping Reid brings the DREAM Act to the Senate floor for a vote before the end of the year.

VICTORY: Motion to Proceed with Defense Bill Defeated

Tuesday, September 21, 2010, 2:54 PM EST

Sen. Reid
A cloture motion to begin debate of the Defense Authorization bill (S.3454) was defeated in the Senate today, 43-to-56. Majority Leader Harry Reid planned to attach the Dream Act Amnesty to the bill as an amendment.

Sen. LeMieux Says he Opposes Dream Act Without Enforcement Measures

Tuesday, September 21, 2010, 12:23 PM EST

Sen. LeMieux
Sen. George LeMieux (R-Fla.) said on the Senate floor that he would oppose the Dream Act without measures to secure the border. During floor debate leading to Tuesday's vote on whether or not to proceed with the Defense Authorization bill, Sen.

Sen. Snowe to Oppose Defense Bill with DREAM Act Amendment

Tuesday, September 21, 2010, 7:53 AM EST

Sen. Snowe
Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine) said in a released statement that she will likely oppose cloture of the Defense Authorization bill when it comes to the Senate floor on Tuesday afternoon under its current form. Sen.

Sen. McCain Says He'll Block DREAM Act

Wednesday, September 15, 2010, 3:05 PM EST

Sen. John McCain
Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), who cosponsored the 2007 mass amnesty bill, says he will block the Defense Authorization bill if the DREAM Act is attached to it. McCain says Sen.

UPDATE: Sen. Reid to Allow a Vote on DREAM Act

Updated Wednesday, September 15, 2010, 9:39 AM EST

Sen. Harry Reid
It's now official, Sen. Harry Reid will try to add the DREAM Act to the Department of Defense Authorization bill when it comes to the Senate floor over the next few weeks. Sen.

New Poll Reveals Americans Favor Enforcement over Amnesty and Ending Birthright Citizenship

Monday, September 13, 2010, 12:14 PM EST

Quinnipiac University
A new poll from Quinnipiac University reveals that the overwhelming majority of Americans believe immigration reform should focus on stricter enforcement over amnesty, while a plurality of Americans support ending the practice of birthright citizenship.

Members of Congress Facing Immigration Questions During Summer Recess

Friday, August 20, 2010, 8:50 AM EST

Rep. Peter DeFazio
With the exception of a quick special session by both the House and Senate to approve a $600 million supplemental spending bill to be used for border security, the month of August is typically used by Members of Congress to return to their home districts and reconnect with their constituents through

Administration Attempts to Downplay USCIS Memo

Updated Friday, July 30, 2010, 2:03 PM EST

Robert Gibbs
White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs downplayed the USCIS memo that surfaced on Thursday and details 18 different ways administrative actions could be used to provide amnesty to millions of illegal aliens.

Sen. Grassley and 11 Senators Again Press Administration for Answers on Executive Action Amnesty

Tuesday, July 27, 2010, 10:41 AM EST

Sen. Chuck Grassley
After receiving no response from their first letter sent to the Obama Administration on June 21 regarding reports of an Executive Action mass amnesty, a group of 12 Senators, led by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), is again asking the Administration for answers.

Immigration Reform Caucus Challenge Pres. Obama on Amnesty Through Executive Actions

Wednesday, July 7, 2010, 11:51 AM EST

Thirty-nine Members of the Immigration Reform Caucus sent Pres. Obama a letter addressing the reports of an attempt by the Administration to provide an Amnesty to the nation's 11-18 million illegal aliens through the use of Executive Orders.

TRANSCRIPT: Pres. Obama's Immigration Reform Speech

Thursday, July 1, 2010, 12:00 PM EST

Pres. Obama
Pres. Obama gave the following speech at American University in Washington, D.C. on Thursday morning.

Sen. Robert Byrd Dies - Stalwart Against Amnesty

Monday, June 28, 2010, 10:49 AM EST

Sen. Robert Byrd
Senator Robert Byrd (D-W.Va.) passed away early this morning at the age of 92. He was the longest-serving member in Congress, spending more than 50 years in the Senate and six more in the House of Representatives. Sen.

Fox News Highlights NumbersUSA and Senators' Letter Regarding Amnesty Through Executive Actions

Updated Thursday, June 24, 2010, 2:14 PM EST

Fox News published a story focusing on NumbersUSA's involvement in what has become a nationwide story of the Obama Administration's possible plans to offer an amnesty through the use of executive actions.

Amnesty Leader Admits Fed Suit vs. Ariz. Would Make More Americans Anti-Amnesty

Monday, June 21, 2010, 11:00 AM EST

Pres. Obama
President of the Pro-Amnesty organization ImmigrationWorks USA, Tamar Jacoby, writes in the Los Angeles Times that the federal government's decision to sue the state of Arizona is a bad idea.

Senate Amnesty Bill to Include Commission Regulating Flow of Foreign Workers

Monday, May 24, 2010, 10:22 AM EST

Senate Democrats drafting an Amnesty bill are developing the details to a new federal commission that would regulate the flow of legal foreign workers into the country.

Rep. Lamar Smith: Amnesty Will Drain Social Security

Thursday, May 13, 2010, 3:11 PM EST

Rep. Lamar Smith
In an article published by Investor's Business Daily, Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) writes that a mass amnesty will drain funds from Social Security despite claims by pro-amnesty supporters who say a mass amnesty will help Social Security over time.

Obama Administration to Extend Temporary Protected Status for Illegal Aliens from Nicaragua and Honduras

Wednesday, May 5, 2010, 4:49 PM EST

Rep. Lamar Smith
The Obama Administration announced today that it is extending Temporary Protected Status for illegal aliens from Nicaragua and Honduras who are living in the United States. TPS for those nations was supposed to expire in July, but the Administration is extending the deadline for two more years.

Tea Party to Fight Senate Amnesty Proposal

Friday, April 30, 2010, 2:34 PM EST

NumbersUSA Local Power Team at the Boston Tea Party
Tea Party leaders have decided to use their activists to fight the Senate Amnesty bill unveiled yesterday afternoon by Majority Leader Harry Reid, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and four other Democratic Senators.

Senate Democrats Circulate New Outline for Amnesty Bill

Wednesday, April 28, 2010, 2:30 PM EST

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid
In an effort led by Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Senators Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), Senate Democrats are moving towards an Amnesty bill without Republican support.

Sen. Graham: Slow Down on Amnesty Bill

Monday, April 26, 2010, 10:22 AM EST

Sen. Lindsey Graham
Sen Lindsey Graham, the lone Republican working with Sen. Charles Schumer in the drafting of an Amnesty bill, said this weekend that he thinks the process needs to slow down. The Democratic Leadership, led by Pres.

Hispanic House Leaders Urge Pres. Obama to Block Arizona Bill

Wednesday, April 21, 2010, 7:52 AM EST

Rep. Luis Gutierrez
Arizona's tough illegal immigration bill hasn't been signed into law yet by Gov. Jan Brewer, but Hispanic Leaders in the House are urging Pres. Barack Obama to block the bill if she does sign it into law. Led by Reps.

CNN Poll Reveals 66% of Americans Don't Want to Make it Easier for Illegal Aliens to Gain Citizenship

Tuesday, April 13, 2010, 10:19 AM EST

A new CNN poll reveals that 66% of Americans don't want the federal government to make it easier for illegal aliens to earn a citizenship. Only 33% say that the United States should make it easier for illegal aliens to earn citizenship.

Union Behind D.C. Pro-Amnesty Protest Spends Nearly $700k in 4th Qtr. Lobbying

Tuesday, March 30, 2010, 11:38 AM EST

The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) spent more than $683,000 lobbying Congress during the fourth-quarter. Much of this was spent lobbying for amnesty and increased immigration.

Top DHS Official Says It Can't Handle a Mass Amnesty

Wednesday, March 24, 2010, 11:16 AM EST

Homeland Security Assistant Inspector General Frank Deffer told Congress on Tuesday that the agency is not prepared for a mass amnesty, and Congress should consider this if and when they take up comprehensive immigration reform. Deffer called a mass amnesty "the mother of all backlogs."

In the News

Admin. extends Salvadoran deportation freeze

In the News - Tuesday, January 10, 2012

The Obama administration has extended temporary protected status to El Salvadoran nationals through late 2013, shielding them from deportation and forcible return to their home country.

By Byron Tau and Joshua Gerstein, Politico, January 10, 2012

http://www.politico.com/politico44/2012/01/admin-extends-salvadoran-deportation-freeze-110304.html

Colorado Senator Michael Bennet introduces bill to give skilled immigrant students a pathway to legal status

In the News - Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Undocumented students who graduate high school and enroll in college in a science, technology or math program would be eligible for temporary student visas in an immigration overhaul bill introduced today by Sen. Michael Bennet.

Bennet, a Democrat and former Denver schools chief, said his proposed bill would also make it easier for students who graduate with advanced degrees in science or math to stay and work in the United States — particularly if there is a need for them.

By Allison Sherry -- The Denver Post

http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_19537105

No, Obama can’t grant ‘amnesty’ by pardoning illegal immigrants

In the News - Tuesday, December 6, 2011

In reality, the president does not possess this authority, as unauthorized presence in the U.S. is a civil violation, not a criminal one. Presidential pardon power only applies to federal crimes, described as “offenses against the United States” in the Constitution. As such, “a pardon can’t make someone a citizen or lawful resident,” explains John Harrison, a law professor at the University of Virginia. “Deportation is not a criminal proceeding, it’s a civil process that removes from the country someone who is not entitled to be here.”

By Suzy Khimm -- Washington Post

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/ezra-klein/post/no-obama-cant-grant-amnesty-by-pardoning-illegal-immigrants/2011/12/06/gIQA5S53ZO_blog.html

Gingrich’s Immigration Plan Could Benefit Millions, Study Finds

In the News - Thursday, December 1, 2011

How many illegal immigrants could gain legal status under an idea proposed by Newt Gingrich? Perhaps as many as 3.5 million, according to figures published Thursday by the Pew Hispanic Center in Washington.

Mr. Gingrich set himself apart from his leading rivals for the Republican presidential nomination last week by saying that he would open a path to legal status for illegal immigrants who had been in the country for many years, had strong family ties here — children and maybe grandchildren — and no criminal record. The Pew Center took up the challenge of calculating how many illegal immigrants might meet Mr. Gingrich’s standards.

By Julia Preston - New York Times

http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/01/gingrichs-immigration-plan-could-benefit-millions-study-finds/

Obama's amnesty

In the News - Monday, August 1, 2011

This is in response to "The HALT Act; It's a game of gotcha" (Editorial, July 23). What really needs to be stopped is the Obama administration's attempt to implement a back-door amnesty.

By: Rep. Lamar Smith -- Chicago Tribune

This is in response to "The HALT Act; It's a game of gotcha" (Editorial, July 23). What really needs to be stopped is the Obama administration's attempt to implement a back-door amnesty.

Although Congress has defeated amnesty for illegal immigrants several times in recent years, this has not stopped President Barack Obama and his administration from abusing executive-branch authority to allow illegal immigrants to remain in the U.S. While this authority is justifiable when exercised responsibly and on a case-by-case basis, actions taken by the Obama administration demonstrate that it plans to use it for entire categories of illegal immigrants. If the administration gets its way, millions of illegal immigrants will be allowed to remain in the U.S. without a vote of Congress.

That is why I have introduced the Hinder the Administration's Legalization Temptation Act, also known as the HALT Act, which will prevent the Obama administration from implementing a back-door amnesty.

The writers of the U.S. Constitution put Congress in charge of setting our immigration policy, but the Obama administration continues to ignore the will of Congress and the American people. Congress makes the laws; the executive enforces them. The president is supposed to execute all the laws adopted by Congress; he does not get to pick and choose which laws his administration will enforce. Congress must put a halt to administrative amnesty.

 U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith, R-Texas, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee

By: Rep. Lamar Smith -- Chicago Tribune

Show More http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/ct-vp-0731voicelettersbriefs-20110731,0,2521514.story?page=2

Obama says will keep pushing immigration reform

In the News - Tuesday, May 3, 2011

"I strongly believe we should fix our broken immigration system. Fix it so it meets our 21st century economic and security needs," Obama told a Miami Dade College graduation ceremony. The college serves tens of thousands of Hispanic and African-American students.

By Alister Bull -- Reuters

http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/04/30/us-usa-obama-immigration-idUSTRE73T0EA20110430

Immigration group pressures Obama

In the News - Monday, April 4, 2011

A coalition of immigration activists and lawmakers has challenged Obama to use his executive powers to change U.S. immigration policy.

The campaign, called Change Takes Courage, will consist of events nationwide, including in Obama’s home state of Hawaii, in the coming months. It was launched a day after the president said he’ll push Congress to pass legislation that will grant citizenship to Latinos in college or the military, but quickly added that he’ll need “a little bit of help” from congressional Republicans.

By: Julie Mason -- Politico.com

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0411/52449.html

Obama talks Libya, immigration at education town hall

In the News - Monday, March 28, 2011

As for immigration, Obama told attendees at the event sponsored by the Univision television network that it is not appropriate to grant "temporary protected status" to undocumented workers. Obama said he cannot suspend deportations by executive order.

The president said deportation of criminals is up 70%, while deportation of non-criminals is down.

Education also came up as Obama told the crowd at a Washington high school that he is working for the DREAM Act, which would create a path to citizenship for children of illegal immigrants who seek college degrees.

By David Jackson -- USA TODAY

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/theoval/post/2011/03/obama-talks-libya-immigration-at-education-town-hall/1

Obama Calls for an Economic Cure for Illegal Immigration

In the News - Wednesday, March 23, 2011

President Obama ended his three-nation Latin American tour on Tuesday with a visit to El Salvador, a source of one of the largest immigrant groups in the United States, and agreed with its president that “the best strategy” for curbing illegal immigration was to create economic growth in the region.

By JACKIE CALMES -- New York Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/23/world/americas/23prexy.html?_r=1

More faith groups favor immigration reform, but just how many Americans are listening?

In the News - Tuesday, March 1, 2011

The editor of the 2011 Yearbook of American & Canadian Churches reports a growing consensus among religious leaders that immigration reform is urgently needed.

But the Rev. Dr. Eileen W. Lindner also notes that religious groups disagree on what kind of reform is necessary, and she questions whether significant numbers of Americans are influenced by what religious leaders say.

National Council of Churches

http://www.ncccusa.org/news/110301immigrants2.html

Polls

Sixty-six percent of Americans Oppose Easy Path to Citizenship

Oppose Amnesty - Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Sixty-six percent of Americans don't want the federal government to make it easier for illegal aliens to earn a citizenship. Only 33% say that the United States should make it easier for illegal aliens to earn citizenship. the majority of both Democrats and Republicans say they oppose making citizenship easier.

Fifty-two percent of Americans, however, say they are at least somewhat sympathetic for illegal aliens and their families. But that number is down from 57% when the same question was asked in May 2006 and from 70% in April 2006.

CNN Poll

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2010/04/12/cnn-poll-two-thirds-dont-want-to-ease-path-to-citizenship-for-illegal-immigrants/?fbid=qdoOg2K-PUh

56% of Mexicans Say Amnesty Would Increase Illegal Immigration

Hispanics on Immigration - Wednesday, October 14, 2009

A clear majority of people in Mexico, 56 percent, thought giving legal status to illegal immigrants in the United States would make it more likely that people they know would go to the United States illegally. Just 17 percent thought it would make Mexicans less likely to go illegally. The rest were unsure or thought it would make no difference.

Zogby International/Center for Immigration Studies

http://cis.org/ZogbyPoll-EffectsOfAmnesty

Most Arizona Voters Put Immigration Over Health Care as More Important Reform Goal

Prefer Lower Numbers Oppose Amnesty Support Tougher Enforcement Oppose Rewards for Illegal Migration - Monday, July 27, 2009

Fifty-one percent of Arizona voters say it is more important for Congress to pass immigration reform than health care reform.

By a 65% to 20% margin, Arizona voters believe enforcing the borders is more important than legalizing the status of those already living here. Half of the state’s voters (50%) think it is possible to put an end to illegal immigration, while 34% do not.

Rasmussen Reports, 27 July 2009

http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/general_state_surveys/arizona/most_arizona_voters_put_immigration_over_health_care_as_more_important_reform_goal

Poll Reveals Progressives Support Lower Immigration Numbers

Prefer Lower Numbers Oppose Amnesty - Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Leah Durant, the Executive Director of Progressives for Immigration Reform, will appear on Lou Dobbs on CNN on Tuesday night to explain new poll numbers showing that liberals are concerned about rising population numbers due to increased immigration. The poll was conducted by Pulse Opinion Research, LLC in April.

The poll revealed:
  • Sixty seven percent of liberals and progressives felt the level of population growth caused by immigration negatively impacts the quality of life in the United States.
  • Fifty eight percent felt that the current levels of immigration are harmful to the environment.
  • Sixty three percent said that current levels of immigration hurts job prospects for American workers.

Progressives for Immigration Reform

Leah Durant, the Executive Director of Progressives for Immigration Reform, will appear on Lou Dobbs on CNN on Tuesday night to explain new poll numbers showing that liberals are concerned about rising population numbers due to increased immigration. The poll was conducted by Pulse Opinion Research, LLC in April.

The poll revealed:

  • Sixty seven percent of liberals and progressives felt the level of population growth caused by immigration negatively impacts the quality of life in the United States.
  • Fifty eight percent felt that the current levels of immigration are harmful to the environment.
  • Sixty three percent said that current levels of immigration hurts job prospects for American workers.
  • With regard to undocumented workers already here, the poll revealed that self-identified liberals are split over whether illegal immigrants should be offered an amnesty. Fifty three percent were in support of a pathway to citizenship and forty five percent were opposed.

Progressives for Immigration Reform

Show More http://www.progressivesforimmigrationreform.org/2009/06/23/survey-of-600-progressives-and-liberals/

Rasmussen Poll Shows 66% of Likely Voters Believe it is Important to Reduce Illegal Immigration

Oppose Amnesty Support Tougher Enforcement Oppose Rewards for Illegal Migration Opinion Elites vs. Public - Tuesday, April 14, 2009

A new Rasmussen poll shows that 66% of likely voters believe that the government should improve border enforcement and reduce illegal immigration.  However, only 32% of America's "Political Class" agree.

The poll also shows that 77% of likely voters believe that illegal aliens should not be able to receive driver's licenses and 73% of Americans believe that police officers should automatically check to see if someone is in this country legally when that person is pulled over for a traffic violation. 

Rasmussen Reports, 14 April 2009

http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/general_politics2/on_immigration_large_gap_remains_between_mainstream_america_and_political_class

Gannett Poll Finds NJ Residents Oppose Rewards for Illegal Aliens

Oppose Rewards for Illegal Migration - Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Sixty-two percent of state residents oppose granting illegal immigrants some type of limited driver's license, according to a Monmouth University/Gannett New Jersey poll.

Only 32 percent said children of illegal immigrants deserved in-state tuition rates, while 20 percent favored the lower rates for illegal immigrants themselves.

http://www.courierpostonline.com/article/20090324/NEWS01/903240343/1006/

Immigration Ranks 10th in Priorities

Support Tougher Enforcement - Monday, January 19, 2009

In a Washington Post/ABC Poll released just before Barack Obama's inaguration, respondents ranked immigration No. 10 on a list of priorities for the administration. The economy, Iraq War, foreign policy and education were all ranked ahead of immigration. Twenty-one percent said that it was the highest priority, 48 percent said it was high priority, while 29 percent said it was low priority.

Washington Post/ABC Poll - January 19

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/documents/postpoll_011709.html

Transatlantic Trends: Immigration

Protect Jobs and Wages Support Tougher Enforcement - Tuesday, November 18, 2008

When asked about what governments should do to address illegal immigration, 83% of respondents supported stronger border controls, 74% supported cracking down on employers, and 68% supported deportation.

The German Marshall Fund of the United States, 2008

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No Post-election Mandate for Amnesty

Oppose Amnesty - Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Only 32% of Obama voters considered his support for amnesty as a factor in their decisions to vote for him. 67% said it was either not a factor at all, or they voted for Obama in spite of his stance on amnesty.

60% of voters said reducing illegal immigration and cracking down on employers who hire them is important to them, while only 21% supported "legalizing or creating a pathway to citizenship" for illegal aliens.

57% of voters stated that amnesty would harm American workers and further strain public resources, while only 26% believe amnesty would aid economic recovery and ease public burdens.

http://www.fairus.org/site/DocServer/zogby_2008_tabresults.pdf.pdf?docID=2262

Rasmussen Poll reveals Americans Angry over Immigration

Oppose Amnesty Support Tougher Enforcement - Friday, November 7, 2008

Twenty-six of respondents are angry over immigration policy in the United States.

Sixty-two percent say gaining control of the borders is more important than legalizing the status of undocumented workers.

http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/current_events/immigration/26_angry_about_immigration_the_issue_candidates_ignore

Quotes

Sen. LeMeiux (R-Fla.) - Secure the Borders

Quotes - Wednesday, September 9, 2009

LeMieux appears likely to steer clear of Martinez's controversial attempts to overhaul immigration law, which would include a path to citizenship for the undocumented. "We need to secure our borders," LeMieux said. "After we do that, we can figure what happens to people already here."

By William E. Gibson -- Sun (Ft. Lauderdale) Sentinel

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/florida/orl-lemieux-senate-090909,0,4035843.story

Sen. Bennet (D-Colo.) -- Favors Amnesty

Quotes - Sunday, April 26, 2009

Sen. Michael Bennet, potentially wading into a heated political debate a year before he runs for his first election, said Saturday he supports a path to citizenship for those in the country illegally.

Speaking at a news conference of four Colorado congressional Democrats touting efforts during Barack Obama's first 100 days in office and the new Congress, Bennet said a path to citizenship along with increased border enforcement should be part of comprehensive immigration reform.

'The current status quo is clearly unacceptable on so many levels,' Bennet said.

He said the path to citizenship should come with requirements, including completing education, learning English and holding a job….

…'Not withstanding all the demagoguery on the issue, this country needs to have comprehensive immigration reform,' Bennet said. 'The question is the timing, and that I can't answer today.' …

By P. Solomon Banda -- The Associated Press

http://www.gazette.com/articles/path_52456___article.html/bennet_supports.html

Sen. McCaskill (D-Mo.) -- Supports Dream

Quotes - Tuesday, April 7, 2009

…McCaskill, in turn, reaffirmed her longstanding argument that the best way to battle illegal immigration is to enforce stiff penalties on employers who knowingly hired illegals and, for example, "put 14 in a hotel room ...and pay them $200 in cash on Fridays" to work as roofing or lawn crews.

Such jobs are the real enticement for illegal immigrants and their disappearance is the best was to discourage it, the senator said.

However, McCaskill emphasized that she also had sympathy for some teenagers who had been brought to the United States as infants or toddlers by their illegal-immigrant parents. The teens (some who were unaware of their illegal status) now face deportation, because their status became known when they applied for college or the military.

By Jo Mannies -- St. Louis Beacon

…McCaskill, in turn, reaffirmed her longstanding argument that the best way to battle illegal immigration is to enforce stiff penalties on employers who knowingly hired illegals and, for example, "put 14 in a hotel room ...and pay them $200 in cash on Fridays" to work as roofing or lawn crews.

Such jobs are the real enticement for illegal immigrants and their disappearance is the best was to discourage it, the senator said.

However, McCaskill emphasized that she also had sympathy for some teenagers who had been brought to the United States as infants or toddlers by their illegal-immigrant parents. The teens (some who were unaware of their illegal status) now face deportation, because their status became known when they applied for college or the military.

"We have a heart-breaking example of young woman in mid-Missouri. Who's valedictorian of her class,'' McCaskill said. "Huge community leader in her church. Now having trouble staying the country because her parents didn't follow the rules.'' …

…"The DREAM Act is hard,'' McCaskill said. But she then added, "I will probably vote for the DREAM act. I didn't vote for it last time."

The difference with the new version is that it's tightly tailored to address only a limited number cases of illegal-immigrant teens who have been longtime U.S. residents and could be productive adult citizens, McCaskill said…

By Jo Mannies -- St. Louis Beacon

Show More http://www.stlbeacon.org/beacon_backroom/mccaskill_buffeted_by_immigration_woes_supports_trimmed-down_dream_bill

Sen. Kyl (R-Ariz.) -- Secure the Borders, Limit Chain Migration

Quotes - Saturday, December 20, 2008

Kyl isn't saying no to immigration reform out of hand, but he supports a position first articulated by McCain during the campaign: that Congress must convince the American people that the borders are secure before pursuing other reforms that critics view as benefiting illegal immigrants…

He also credited Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and Kennedy for their willingness to make concessions, particularly on restricting family "chain migration," upon which Kyl says few other countries base their immigration systems. With chain migration, immigrants can facilitate visas for relatives.

Kennedy's conciliatory attitude prompted Kyl to make concessions, too. He agreed to a proposed pathway to citizenship for many who are now in the country illegally. Kyl prefers a system based on the U.S. marketplace's need for temporary workers and had opposed such a pathway in 2006.

By Dan Nowicki -- Arizona Republic

Kyl isn't saying no to immigration reform out of hand, but he supports a position first articulated by McCain during the campaign: that Congress must convince the American people that the borders are secure before pursuing other reforms that critics view as benefiting illegal immigrants…

He also credited Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and Kennedy for their willingness to make concessions, particularly on restricting family "chain migration," upon which Kyl says few other countries base their immigration systems. With chain migration, immigrants can facilitate visas for relatives.

Kennedy's conciliatory attitude prompted Kyl to make concessions, too. He agreed to a proposed pathway to citizenship for many who are now in the country illegally. Kyl prefers a system based on the U.S. marketplace's need for temporary workers and had opposed such a pathway in 2006.

"I doubt that the public thinks we're there yet, and I'm not sure that the same basic trade-offs will be agreed to again," Kyl said. "I don't know whether the Obama administration would be willing to consider the same changes, but they were critical to my support for the ultimate bill. And if they alter the agreement significantly, and I suspect they will do so, then the equation for trade-offs becomes totally different."

By Dan Nowicki -- Arizona Republic

Show More http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/2008/12/20/20081220kyl-immig1220.html

Sen. Wicker (R-Miss.) -- Increase Border Control, Expand E-Verify

Quotes - Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Wicker said he has supported legislation to increase military presence on the country's border with Mexico and a more stringent employment verification system.

"We need to make sure the E-Verify system is as accurate and instantaneous as it can be," he said. "I know there are people who think it's inaccurate, (but) it seemed to be a system on the right track to me."

In a wide-ranging interview, Wicker said he disagrees that babies born in the United States to parents who are in the country illegally should automatically become American citizens.

"I personally don't think that, and that alone, should confer citizenship on someone," Wicker said. "It would take a statute to be passed to say that interpretation of the 14th Amendment is incorrect. I would vote for such a statute to say something more has to take place than for the child to be physically born of illegal immigrant parents for that child to be a citizen."…

By Terry L. Jones -- Hattiesburg American

http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080827/NEWS01/808270381

Sen. Hutchison (R-Texas) -- Favors Guest-Worker Program

Quotes - Monday, September 17, 2007

Hutchison made clear the GOP plan, shaping up as the rival to Feinstein's AgJobs bill, would not offer citizenship to the temporary workers.

"The problem we had in the last bill was the controversy over amnesty," Hutchison said when asked how her legislation could avoid the fate of the proposed comprehensive immigration fix.

Sessions, who called AgJobs a "massive amnesty," is pressing for a program that would allow foreign workers to stay in the U.S. for as long as 10 months and then return home before applying to re-enter for another temporary work cycle...

…Hutchison is making no promises. "I don't know if we are going to be successful," she said. But, she added, "Let's try taking it in smaller pieces and do what, really, Congresses in the past should have done."

Houston Chronicle

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/5139911.html

Sen. Dorgan (D-N.D.) -- Secure Boders

Quotes - Friday, June 29, 2007

this issue will come back. I think the first thing’s first: to provide demonstrated border security and border enforcement. At that point the American people will feel that we’re doing the first thing we need to do.

The Hill

http://blog.thehill.com/2007/06/29/the-immigration-debate-is-not-over-sen-byron-dorgan/