“More and more Republicans are coming to grips with the idea that if we don’t solve this problem, we can never be a national player,” Graham said in an interview.
But he was quick to warn that Democrats would do nothing but incite conservative passions if they try to pass an immigration reform bill this year with little bipartisan support.
“If they try to jam a bill through this year because they’re getting pressure from the Hispanic community, I tell you what: They could blow the last chance we’ll have,” he said.
Further, other Republicans said, bringing up an immigration reform bill with uncertain prospects for passage would appear tone-deaf.
“The risk for them is to continue to appear out of touch with the concerns of most Americans, which is jobs,” said Gillespie. “And the only conclusion that a lot of independents will draw is because it’s a sop to their left.”
Still, Gillespie warned his own party to “handle the issue with care.”
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