Immigration reform within reach, says Obama
LAS VEGAS, Nevada (AFP) — President Barack Obama said Tuesday that comprehensive immigration reform was finally within America’s grasp, announcing a plan to usher 11 million illegal immigrants towards citizenship within stronger US borders.
“The question now is simple. Do we have the resolve as a people, as a country, as a government, to finally put this issue behind us. I believe that we do,” the president said in a speech in Las Vegas, Nevada.
“I believe we are finally at a moment where comprehensive reform is within our grasp,” Obama said.
But predicting debate over the fiercely divisive issue would get “more emotional,” Obama called on Congress to act swiftly, and warned in a mostly conciliatory speech he would take a tough line against any delays.
Should lawmakers fail to act in a “timely fashion,” Obama warned: “I will send up a bill based on my proposal and insist that they vote on it right away.”
