McCain favors comprehensive immigration reform after borders secured

The Hill ^ | 1/05/2011 | Michael O'Brien

[WilliamHouston]

Congress should take up work on comprehensive immigration reform once the U.S. borders are secure, Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) said Wednesday.

McCain, a longtime proponent of comprehensive reform who had tacked right in his race for reelection last year, said that an immigration deal could be an area of compromise between Republicans and Democrats.

"Once we get the border secured — and we can get the border secured — I would look forward to working on comprehensive immigration reform," the 2008 Republican presidential nominee said on NBC's "Today" show.

The Arizona senator had in the past favored legislation that would give illegal immigrants a path to citizenship. But McCain tacked to his right after facing a primary challenge from former Rep. J.D. Hayworth (R). . .

[Once-Ler]

and the 13% 24% margin against a rat in the general election.