No, Mitchell did what a lot of Dem candidates did to defuse the issue, i.e., they said they supported the WH/McCain position.
He effectively painted Hayworth and the GOP as being derelict because they refused to address the problem.
The GOP controlled House passed H R 4437, which JD said wasn't strong enough. The Senate passed comprehensive immigration reform in 2006, i.e., S 2611, but the Senate Reps voted 32-23 AGAINST it.
The problem that the Reps faced was the WH, which provided the Dems cover. Immigration was not a defining issue in the Hayworth-Mitchell race, mainly because Mitchell was able to hide behind the WH and McCain. Scandal and redistricting were the main reasons Hayworth lost. I have a home in Scottsdale, which is why I am familiar with what happened.
After the Senate passed 2611, the House GOP walked away from the issue. Instead, they went on tour, holding "hearings" at various locations as a way inflame the immigration issue. They held several in AZ.
Both Mitchell's and Hayworth's TV campaign ad on immigration were on You Tube, and are probably still there. My family members living in Scottsdale are also familiar with the campaign. Immigration was a loser for Hayworth and other GOPers.
By some accounts, some GOPers will rely on immigration in 2008. The GOP prez candidates are certainly trying to out-hard-line each other. As in 2006, it won't help, it will only hurt.