SEIU Urges President Obama to Stay Focused on the Economic Benefits of Immigration Reform

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- During remarks at the National Council of La Raza’s annual conference, President Obama outlined his continuing outreach to Hispanics, the nation’s largest and fastest-growing minority, and renewed his commitment to push for comprehensive immigration reform. Following the president’s remarks, SEIU International Executive Vice President Mitch Ackerman issued the following statement:

“As the president heads into his 2012 re-election campaign, Latinos across the country remain anxious for the immigration reforms that will bolster our economy, fix the dysfunctional immigration system so that there are enough visas to meet employment and family needs, and protect our borders. Most Latinos – like other Americans – appreciate the president’s commitment to comprehensive immigration reform but are also very much aware of the obstacles to getting it done, given the ongoing congressional stalemates on important issues such as raising the debt ceiling, proposals to dismantle Medicare as we know it, stimulating the economy, and immigration.

“On immigration as on other issues, Republicans in Congress appear intent on playing politics and pandering to their narrow base rather than enacting policies that will solve problems. One example is the mean-spirited HALT Act, recently introduced by Representative Lamar Smith, R-Tx., Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, which would preclude the Administration from providing immigration relief to orphans, spouses of injured U.S. soldiers, and hurricane victims, among others with compelling needs.

“In this political environment, President Obama must continue to show strong leadership on immigration and, until Congress is ready to act, make full use of his administrative authority to ensure that immigration enforcement is carried out fairly and with the right priorities.”

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