Immigration reform—it’s not over yet!
While stubborn politicians have blocked a comprehensive immigration bill from getting a vote in the House of Representatives, reform isn’t dead yet! Advocates from the American Immigration Lawyers Association say that there are more windows of opportunity in the spring and early summer for an immigration reform bill to be passed in the House.
In fact, a recent poll indicates that Republican Representatives risk losing support from their constituents if they do not support immigration reform. The poll, sponsored by Republicans for Immigration Reform, Partnership for a New American Economy and Complete America, found that 52% of surveyed individuals said they would be more likely to vote for a candidate who supports immigration reform and 54% of those surveyed said that they would be less likely to vote for a candidate who opposes reform.
What kind of immigration reform will voters back? Nationwide, 71% of voters said that they would support an immigration bill that included border security, an expanded visa program for high-skilled workers and agricultural workers, an employment verification system, a pathway to citizenship for undocumented children and legal status for undocumented immigrants.
How can I push for immigration reform? Call Congress! Let your Representative know that you want them to support immigration reform. Don’t let intimidating politicians stand in your way—calling Congress is actually a very simple way to let your voice be heard! Learn more about calling Congress here.
Congressman Greg Walden represents Oregon’s district two and is the chairman of the national Republican Congressional Committee. Though Walden carries weight in Congress, he has refused to support the needs of his constituents and back immigration reform. Let Walden know that you want him to lead the way in the GOP by pushing for reform.
Comprehensive immigration reform is important for the more than 11 million undocumented immigrants who are living in the United States today. Within Oregon, reform will improve our economy, boost small businesses, and increase agricultural growth. Oregon’s agricultural industry supports families state-wide, and farmers in need of workers will be benefited by immigration reform here!
Don’t let Congress discourage you—stand up for reform today by calling your Representative. And learn more about support for immigration reform here.