Immigration reform won’t happen this year, but ironically the border debacle may make immigration reform more likely in the near to mid-future. Even if the House wanted to, there is little time (a couple weeks now and a few in September) to get any major legislation done. Moreover, with the monkey off their back and the Democrats under fire for the border mess, Republicans will see less urgency to move forward. Still, the outlook for 2015 and beyond is not entirely bleak for those who favor immigration reform.

Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., left, and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., right, are key proponents of comprehensive immigration reform. (J. Scott Applewhite/Associated Press)

There are the anti-reform advocates who actually oppose all immigration, legal or otherwise, and are fundamentally opposed to compromise on anything. Although that segment of the blogosphere and radio talk show universe is loud, it’s tiny when compared to the combination of the border-security-first and pro-comprehensive reform groups. The key to reform has always been to get the people willing to consider reform if border security is dealt with together with those who want to work on legalization simultaneously with border control (or who aren’t interested in strong border protection mechanisms).

via Immigration solution? – The Washington Post.