San Diego Union-Tribune Editorial

Let the debate begin

Schumer delays release of immigration reform

October 5, 2009

There are incontrovertible truths in the interplay between Congress and the White House over immigration reform.

First, with a struggling economy, two wars and the health care debate, President Barack Obama already has more than enough on his plate. So few Americans would fault him if he didn't take on another major legislative battle until after next year's midterm elections — especially if they're emotional and divisive, as is immigration reform.

It's also true that Obama promised comprehensive immigration reform and the longer he waits to get the ball rolling, the steeper the climb. There is simply no brand of political math by which it becomes easier to get legislation through after the midterm elections than it would have been before if Democrats lose seats in Congress next year.

Finally, it's also true that, absent action by the White House, Congress must lead by preparing legislation that Obama could sign. Many lawmakers lament the broken immigration system, and this is their chance to do something about it. There's no point in waiting for the White House — especially since it is the job of Congress to pass laws anyway.

But is Congress up to the task? It has a horrible record in dealing with the immigration issue. Republicans spend all their time blustering and stoking fears. And Democrats are willing to unravel an immigration deal if any part of it is unacceptable to organized labor.

As chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Immigration, Refugees and Border Security, Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York promised last spring to have immigration reform legislation ready to go by Labor Day. The holiday came and went, and still nothing from Schumer even though he had spelled out in the speech exactly what would be in the bill.

The writing of the actual legislation is obviously all done. That means the delay is political. It's possible that the White House asked Schumer to hold off on dropping the bill until after the health care debate. Or maybe he made that decision on his own. Either way, Schumer needs to keep his promise and move on this issue right away.

Americans need immigration reform. But first Congress needs a bill. Let's have it.

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