Sen. Rand Paul will be telling the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce members on Tuesday: America will open its doors to immigrants who want to work here.
Mr. Paul is expected to address the chamber group on Tuesday; The Associated Press reported a preview of his remarks.
“If you wish to live and work in American, then we will find a place for you,” the Kentucky Republican is expected to say, AP reports. Mr. Paul has conditions for citizenship for the estimated 11 million who are currently living in this country illegally. For instance, AP reports, he believes Congress has to first put in place serious reforms to protect the borders.
Mr. Paul’s embrace of citizenship for illegals follows a just-released GOP report — the widely reported Republican National Committee’s “autopsy” report that reflects on the reasons for the party’s 2012 election failures — calling on Republicans to reach out more to minority voters. The report advised a party-wide platform for comprehensive immigration reform.
Mr. Paul will make part of his speech in Spanish, Politico reports.
“Immigration reform will not occur until conservative Republicans, like myself, become part of the solution,” he is expected to say, AP reports. “Let’s start that conversation by acknowledging we aren’t going to deport” the millions of illegal immigrants presently in the country.
SEE ALSO: Sen. Rand Paul: Trust but verify on immigration reform
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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