::Thursday, January 08, 2004::
IS THE PRESIDENT PANDERING?
..The President's decision to reform immigration may be a way to court sentimental favor to the millions of Hispanics that are now becoming a political force in this country. It is quite smart for the President to put the debate out there especially in an election year that makes him appear to be a "compassionate" president to the Hispanic community that has traditionally voted Democrat. If the conservative right rises in revolt against the bill and moves to block it in Congress, President Bush can always say that he tried to pass it this year and promises to revisit it once he is reelected. If the bill passes, that means the right was won over by other perks and concessions (e.g. business) that will please their constituencies. Either way the President would endear himself to the Hispanic community and may collect some votes that presidential adviser Karl Rove says the President badly needs to ensure winning the 2004 elections.
