California Republicans stress immigration support
WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Rep. David Valadao says he's not worried that Congress' failure to pass immigration legislation will hurt his prospects for re-election to a district in California's agricultural heartland. Same goes for GOP Rep. Jeff Denham, who represents a neighboring district in the state's San Joaquin Valley.
Still, the California congressmen are making sure voters know they support an immigration overhaul. They're aware that Democrats will try to turn the congressional gridlock into an advantage during this year's midterm elections.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce spent $300,000 on television ads in Valadao's district, noting that he is the son of immigrants. Denham highlights an award he received from the nation's largest Latino advocacy group for "putting sound immigration policy over party politics." He was the first Republican co-sponsor of a sweeping immigration bill now stalled in the House.
"People have seen I've shown real leadership in driving this issue forward," Denham said. . . .