Bush Lays Out 5 Pillars of Immigration Reform

ABCNews’ Lydia Thew Reports: In his radio address this morning, President Bush laid out his goals for comprehensive immigration reform.  He also urged bipartisanship in the impending Congressional debate on immigration.

“Reforming our immigration system is an important opportunity to show that elected officials in Washington can work together to find practical solutions to the problems that matter most,” Bush said. 

The President outlined five objectives including border security, employer accountability, a temporary worker program, resolving the status of illegal immigrants and honoring the American tradition of a melting pot. 

“The success of our country depends upon helping newcomers assimilate into our society and embrace our common identity as Americans,” Bush said. 

He added, “I am optimistic we can pass a comprehensive immigration bill and get this problem solved for the American people this year.”  The Senate is scheduled to debate immigration reform this week.