McCain touts immigration reform to Hispanic voters
By David Jackson, USA TODAY

WASHINGTON — John McCain reaffirmed his commitment to "comprehensive immigration reform" Tuesday, telling a Hispanic group that sealing the border is not enough.
"We have economic and humanitarian responsibilities as well, and they require no less dedication from us in meeting them," McCain told the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).

The presumptive Republican presidential candidate mentioned immigration at the end of a speech devoted mainly to jobs and the economy, the twin themes of his campaign week. He said his package of lower taxes and spending cuts will help small businesses, which he called "the job engine of America."

"There are two million Latino-owned businesses in America," McCain said, describing that as "a number that is growing very rapidly."

Barack Obama, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, spoke to the group later Tuesday and said McCain had "abandoned his courageous stance" on comprehensive immigration reform and had even withdrawn support for his own initial legislation on the issue.

Obama and supporters have accused McCain of trying to have it both ways on immigration, talking tough on the border to conservative groups and stressing comprehensive reform to Hispanic audiences.

"We need a president who isn't going to walk away from something as important as comprehensive reform when it becomes politically unpopular," Obama said.

Both campaigns have targeted Hispanic voters, cutting Spanish language ads in search of support from a group that could make the difference in such key states as New Mexico, Colorado, Nevada, and McCain's home state of Arizona.

The two presidential candidates are making a tour of Hispanic organizations. Last month, they spoke to the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials. Next week they address the La Raza national convention.

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