Bush seeks quick immigration reform bill

FLORENCE, Ky., May 20 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush pushed for quick congressional action on immigration law reform that honors the United States' "immigrant heritage."

Bush used his radio address Saturday to go over the reform plan he detailed in a speech Monday. The plan is close to legislation being considered by the U.S. Senate and much less harsh than a U.S. House of Representatives-passed bill. The president asked for a Senate measure to be passed by the end of the month.

"That legislation must be comprehensive," Bush said. "All elements of this problem must be addressed together or none of them will be solved at all."

Bush insisted the immigration issue can be ironed out in a way to keep the United States "a lawful society and a welcoming society."

He said: "We should approach this debate with confidence. America has shown before that we can enforce our laws and uphold our values and we will do it again. Our nation honors the heritage of all who've come here because we trust in our country's genius for making us all Americans, one nation under God."

Bush was out of Washington Friday, raising funds for Kentucky and Virginia GOP candidates.