Roll Call
Obama Immigration Comments Rile Congress
May 20, 2010
By Jennifer Bendery and John Stanton
Roll Call Staff

President Barack Obama exuded confidence in the prospects for passing comprehensive immigration reform as he went before the cameras Wednesday with his guest, Mexican President Felipe Calderon. But on the Hill, lawmakers in both parties pounced on the president for failing to admit the reality of the matter: There is no appetite for taking it up anytime soon, and Republicans aren’t the only reason why.

Calderon, who will speak to Congress in a joint session today, attended a series of White House events Wednesday as part of a two-day visit to discuss pressing issues with Obama, including immigration reform. During a joint press appearance, Obama talked forcefully about the need to move on the issue and pointed the finger at Republicans for blocking progress.

“I have confidence that I can get the majority of Democrats, both in the House and the Senate, to support a piece of legislationâ€