President Barack Obama “is reportedly reviewing proposals to allow as many as 5 million illegal immigrants to stay in the United States at least temporarily, according to several people familiar with his plans,” said the Washington Post, with a decision “either this month or in early December.” Republican leaders in Congress say the president should delay action or risk opposition on a wide range of administration goals. In a televised interview, Obama said if he acts, Congress can put its policy in place of his by passing an immigration law, said the Associated Press.
Farm groups have supported comprehensive immigration reform that includes a path to citizenship for farm workers who are in the country illegally if they continue to work in agriculture. Bob Stallman, president of the American Farm Bureau Federation said last week that the group is hopeful of action in Congress next year. He said if the White House issues an executive order that is too sweeping, “it does poison the well.”