John McCain Throws In The Towel On Immigration Reform Bill
By SAHIL KAPUR Published AUGUST 25, 2014, 4:29 PM EDT
The most prominent Republican supporter of immigration reform is backing away from his signature legislation, a sign of how dramatically intra-party politics on the issue are shifting.
"We need to assure the American people that the border is secure. People in Arizona are so cynical about the promises that have been made about a secure border," Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) said on KPNX 12 News' "Sunday Square Off."
He called for "90 percent effective control" before any other reforms are made to the immigration system. That's what many opponents of a comprehensive overhaul have said throughout the debate since last year, but it's a nonstarter for Democrats and Latino advocates, who are key stakeholders in the debate.
"I think it’s going to have to [come first]," McCain said of border security.
more
http://talkingpointsmemo.com/dc/john-mccain-throws-in-the-towel-on-immigration