July 31, 2005, 10:20PM
GOP courts consensus on border policy
Party hopes to mend its own rift while reconciling U.S. labor and security demands
By SAMANTHA LEVINE
Copyright 2005 Houston Chronicle Washington Bureau
WASHINGTON - White tablecloths, polished silverware and candlelight are the tools of a cunning suitor. But when found in a dining room in the House of Representatives, they signal high politics rather than romantic intentions.
The elegant atmosphere is what Rep. John Shadegg of Arizona, chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee, is using to help build agreement among his GOP colleagues on an issue where there is little: immigration reform.
"I want people to realize that there is more that holds us together than pulls us apart," he said.
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But it will take more than what Shadegg calls "unity dinners" to bridge the divisions that split Republicans when it comes to fixing what many see as a dangerously crippled immigration system.
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http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/ssistory.mpl/front/3290262(Free registration required)
Shadegg