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Congressmen Kinzinger And Foster Agree, Basically, On Immigration Reform Outline

Jessica Cabe
/
WNIJ

A bi-partisan Senate effort to come up with an immigration reform plan is getting a good reception -- but some members of Congress are hanging back in their support until they know more details.

During a visit to DeKalb High School,  16th District Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger said his support for the Senate proposal depends on the plan’s priorities when it gets to the House.

“I think we do have to have, obviously, some kind of immigration reform. We are a nation of immigrants. I think it’s also important in that to make sure we have a secure border. And then we move forward on what to do next.”

Kinzinger says it’s also important to make sure that immigrants who are in the United State legally stay at the head of the line for citizenship. Democratic Congressman Bill Foster agrees.

“People who have come into the country illegally should not end up better off because they‘ve done that. They need to get in line behind people who have waited their turn legally in the system. So that means it’s going to be a very long path…but at least there will be a path.”

Foster says he expects long negotiations on the plan’s specifics…but for the first time in a long time, he is optimistic about Congress’ ability to break through gridlock.

Susan is an award-winning reporter/writer at her favorite radio station. She's also WNIJ's Perspectives editor, Under Rocks contributor, and local host of All Things Considered.