Obama heckled over immigration reform in Connecticut

BRIDGEPORT, Conn., Nov. 3 (UPI) -- President Barack Obama faced criticism in what was supposed to be friendly territory, as supporters of immigration reform repeatedly disrupted a campaign appearance in Connecticut Sunday.

While stumping for Gov. Daniel Malloy, pro-immigration reform activists referring to themselves as Dreamers heckled the president for not using executive action to bypass Congress and pass the senate's proposed legislation.

"The Republicans are blocking immigration reform," countered Obama.

"That's one more reason we need a Democratic Senate. So I support you. I'm with you. And you need to go protest the Republicans, because I'm not the one blocking it!"

The heckler was removed by security, but within moments of Obama declaring "Let's try again," another woman interrupted him to express her frustration with Washington's gridlock on the issue. Again, the president told her to heckle the Republicans.

"That's why we fought for immigration reform. It's the other party that's blocking. Unfortunately, folks get frustrated, and they yell at everybody."

Later in the speech, the president was interrupted for a third time after saying, "Republicans are patriots. They love their country."

"No, they don't!" a heckler shot back.

"Listen, just because folks are good folks doesn't mean they've got good ideas," offered Obama.