President Obama’s bold immigration plan will boost America’s future

As Republicans continue their tiresome attack on immigration reform, President Barack Obama commendably is getting ready to put in place a more humane and more forward-looking policy for this country.

Media reports indicate Obama in the near future could use executive orders to expand a program that prevents deportations of parents of children who are legal U.S. residents or citizens. The president’s plan also might help more children qualify for temporary legal status. In another beneficial action, Obama could expand the number of visas for high-tech workers.

These moves advance laudable goals. They would bring a measure of security to several million people, many of whom are working, raising families, participating in school activities with their children, improving their English and generally making positive contributions to American society.

Obama’s proposed actions are so sensible it’s a shame Congress hasn’t acted on them already. They are championed by a number of business groups and even some voices on the right.

Now that Obama appears ready to take action, we’re hearing the same protests from House Speaker John Boehner and many other Republicans. They appear more interested in appeasing the most strident base of their voters than in looking toward the future of a more diverse and productive America.

Already there’s irresponsible talk of trying to shut down the government if Obama pursues his immigration policies. Emboldened by what they see as a mandate from voters on Nov. 4 to block anything and everything the president wants to do, some in the GOP seem ready to pursue a reckless action that would adversely affect millions of Americans.

It’s also worth noting that the GOP’s intention to thumb its nose at millions of Latino voters is not a winning strategy for the 2016 presidential election.

Obama deserves a share of blame for not acting more quickly to help immigrants through responsible executive actions. He and other Democrats have been too timid in the face of Republican bluster and inaction.

Now that the president appears ready to act, Americans have good reasons to embrace a strategy that could provide immigrants a chance at a more normal life, without the constant threat of deportation.

This story was originally published November 14, 2014 at 2:05 PM with the headline "President Obama’s bold immigration plan will boost America’s future."