GOP Moves to Force Immigration Vote

[babsbunny]

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/C/CONGRESS_IMMIGRATION?SITE=ALMON&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

By JULIE HIRSCHFELD DAVIS
Associated Press Writer



GOP Moves to Force Immigration Vote



WASHINGTON (AP) -- 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.

[Vincardog]

1. Bring it on. Let both sides stand up and state their case. Will it be on TV?

[applegrove]

2. I agree. Go for it. Bring it on. Democratic voters will be energized.

The GOP will wedge themselves.