Bush Presses Senate GOP On Immigration

WASHINGTON — President Bush pressed divided Republicans yesterday to support him on immigration overhaul, saying "status quo is unacceptable."

In a rare visit to the Capitol for lunch with the Senate's GOP membership, Mr. Bush said he recognized that immigration was an emotional issue and that many do not agree with him. Still, he said, "Now is the time to get it done."

The measure supported by the White House, which legalizes up to 12 million unlawful immigrants and tightens border security, stalled last week in the face of broad Republican opposition.

Mr. Bush's personal effort to salvage the derailed bill came as key lawmakers reached for a deal that could quickly revive the measure. He needs to change enough minds among GOP senators to push through a top domestic priority.

"The White House will stay engaged," Mr. Bush told reporters after the lunch.