Obama missed chance for immigration fix

Published 10:00 am Thursday, May 19, 2011

Almost a year ago, we criticized President Barack Obama for choosing not to push immigration reform in 2010 and warned that the lack of a national policy would result in Arizona’s controversial law targeting illegal immigrants being replicated around the country.

While many states were dissuaded from following Arizona’s lead after it was sued by the Obama administration and was the target of protests and boycotts, there are several that are proceeding with their own immigration laws.

The reason they give for getting involved in what is a national issue: the failure of the federal government to act.

It now clear that the president’s decision to take immigration reform off the front burner was a missed opportunity. The 2012 presidential election is under way, with Obama formally announcing his re-election bid and Republicans lining up for their party’s nomination.

Thus, the chances of any immigration reform bill becoming law this year or next are slim to none. But that does not mean there shouldn’t be a national conversation and congressional hearings on this highly-charged, controversial issue. …

While partisan politics invariably rears its head when issues of great importance to the nation’s future are being considered, there must be a willingness by all sides to have a serious national dialogue on immigration. …

The (Youngstown) Vindicator