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Hoyer: Bush Immigration Plan Seems to be Little More Than a Political Maneuver

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement this afternoon in response to immigration reform proposals announced by President Bush today:

"I welcome the President's decision to re-engage on an issue of great importance to millions of American families across our country.  Democrats have long championed immigration reform and produced strong and balanced legislative proposals currently pending in Congress.

"Unfortunately, the President's vague proposal is a self-consciously political maneuver that only offers false hope to many recent and future undocumented immigrant workers.  It presents no real solutions for long-term, hardworking immigrants who have made the United States their home.  For instance, there is no path for immigrants who have been in the United States for 20 years or more to get permanent status in this nation, and they are only offered 'guest worker' status.

"The United States is a nation of immigrants, and every generation has been strengthened by the work ethic and values of those who have joined American society from abroad.  This issue cries out for a comprehensive solution, and the American people and our immigrant community deserve more than a proposal designed for political consumption."

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