Obama Speaks on Immigration in Chicago

Visit comes a day after Obama called on the nation to show restraint after the Ferguson, Missouri, grand jury's decision not to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the death of Michael Brown

President Barack Obama returned to his hometown of Chicago Tuesday afternoon to tout his executive action on immigration.

Obama's planned visit to the Copernicus Community Center comes four days after his directive that would prevent the deportation of about 4 million parents and guardians who lack the same legal status as their children.

"Being a nation of immigrants gives us a huge entrepreneurial advantage over other nations," he said during his speech.

Obama also stressed other economic benefits of his action and called on Congress to pass a more comprehensive bill.

"The actions we're taking will grow the economy for everybody," Obama said.

The speech also comes a day after Obama called on the nation to show restraint after the Ferguson, Missouri, grand jury's decision not to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the death of Michael Brown was announced. The president may use the opportunity to react to violent protests and acts of civil disobedience that took place overnight.

The president arrived just before 3 p.m. and depart shortly after 6 p.m.

"As the President said on Thursday, his Immigration Accountability Executive actions will help secure the border, hold nearly 5 million undocumented immigrants accountable and ensure that everyone plays by the same rules," the White House said in a statement. "They will also continue our commitment as Americans to an ideal-- that all of us are created equal, and all of us have the chance to make of our lives what we will."

Republicans have accused Obama of overstepping his authority. Republican House Speaker John Boehner of Ohio said Obama, in sidestepping Congress, had damaged his ability to get things done.

Obama said in an interview broadcast nationally Sunday that presidents use "prosecutorial discretion" all the time.

While in Chicago, Obama also met with community leaders.

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said Tuesday the city is working with community partners and city departments to disseminate information about the recent executive actions on immigration.

“Today we welcome President Obama to Chicago and applaud him for taking executive action that will not only bring relief to families across the Country and Chicago, but will also provide many individuals the opportunity to pursue their dreams and continue to contribute to our city and economy,” Emanuel said in a statement. “For months now we have been preparing for administrative relief and are committed to making Chicago the gold standard that achieves record numbers of relief, ensuring that as many residents as possible take advantage of this opportunity.”

Obama also poked fun at the mayor during his speech saying, "It is true Rahm speaks a language that can’t be translated in front of children. Although he’s a mayor now so I’m sure he doesn’t do that."

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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