GOP Strategist Matt Mackowiak Says Gang of 8 Immigration Reform Is Far From Perfect [AUDIO]

On the Monday edition of The Chad Hasty Show, GOP strategist and co-founder of MustReadTexas.com Matt Mackowiak talked with Chad Hasty about the latest going on statewide and nationally.

Immigration reform continues to be a hot topic in Washington, particularly concerning Marco Rubio and the "Gang of 8" immigration bill, which appears to be on its way to Senate approval. Mackowiak said that the immigration argument seems to boil down to two sides; you're either pro-deportation or pro-citizenship, and this bill falls on the pro-citizenship side. He admits that it's far from a perfect immigration bill, but right now, it's the best we can get.

"Is the bill perfect? No, and I probably would disagree with what Rubio said over the weekend that ninety-five or ninety-six percent of it is perfect. I don't think that much of it is perfect. But on the other hand, as of right now, I think it's the best product that could have been negotiated behind the scenes in a group setting."

Mackowiak pointed out that one of the parts of the bills that must be improved, especially to get Republicans behind it, is border security. He also said he would like to see an open amendment process added to the bill.

In particular, he said John Cornyn's amendment, which would increase the requirements for illegal immigrants to apply for a green card, is a crucial amendment that could spell the end of the bill in the House if it is not added. Mackowiak added that another factor to the bill's successful passage would be if Rubio continues to endorse it or not, saying that if Rubio walks away from the bill, he'll take a lot of votes with him.

You can listen to Matt Mackoiwak Mondays at 9:35 during The Chad Hasty Show on NewsTalk 790 KFYO and online at KFYO.com. You can also follow Mackowiak on Twitter: @MattMackowiak.