Why Immigration Reform Now Isn't Such a Bad Idea

This probably is a good time for the administration to do this. Hispanic voters are an important segment of the Democratic party and they should be listened to. - - Donna Poisl

by Dylan Loewe, Democratic political strategist

The New York Times is reporting that the White House intends to jump-start a new debate on immigration reform this year, a move in line with promises made by the president during the campaign season. Not surprisingly, there is some trepidation among Democrats as to whether an issue as thorny as immigration might distract from this year's debate on health care, energy and education.

There are, to be sure, some serious risks in addressing immigration reform during an economic crisis. If the White House fails to persuade the public that immigration reform would have a positive impact on the economy, the president faces presenting Republicans with their first winning issue of 2009. The battle cry from the right will undoubtedly be that Democrats are bringing millions of new workers into an economy short on jobs.

Still, now might be the perfect time to debate the issue.
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