Bryant Opposes Amnesty for Illegals
May 21, 2007
Jackson, Miss.
Reporter: Wendy Suares

More details emerged Monday on a compromise immigration bill pending in Congress.

Mississippi's state auditor said he is eager to clarify his opposition to the bill.

Phil Bryant said he does not support the bill as it is proposed, because it would allow illegal aliens already in the U.S. a path to citizenship.

Bryant says he does, however, support securing the Mexican border.

The auditor said he's pleased immigration is being addressed on the federal level, but says the amnesty part of the bill needs to be removed.

"You're looking at as many as 15-16 million illegal immigrants in this country. That could have such a dramatic effect on the next presidential election," Bryant said. "We are against amnesty here in Mississippi and across the nation, and we need to send a clear message."

Supporters of the bill had hoped the deal would pass the U.S. Senate by Memorial Day. But it now looks it may take several weeks, as some changes may be made.

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