Durbin: Odds Are Good for Immigration Reform

The Illinois senator said Republicans are rethinking their position on immigration following the 2012 election

Sen. Dick Durbin says the chances are good that the U.S. Senate will pass comprehensive immigration reform.

Durbin told a Chicago radio station he is one of three Democrats working with three Republicans to draft an immigration bill. He said all six senators agree the legislation should include the DREAM Act, which would make college affordable for illegal immigrants.

Durbin also said Republicans are rethinking their position on immigration following the 2012 election, when Hispanic voters turned out heavily for President Barack Obama and other Democrats.

But any immigration bill will need the support of the Hispanic caucus and Republicans, so it will require compromise, according to the Illinois senator.

Durbin said he couldn't speculate about the prospects of approval in the Republican-controlled House.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us