PUTNAM HAS A REAL TEST BEFORE HIM ON IMMIGRATION REFORM

Congressman Adam Putnam (R - Bartow) has a real dilemma facing him, and he's certainly not going to make everyone happy within his own party.

Immigration reform is a big issue in Central Florida. There are a number of Hispanics and other immigrants --- legally and illegally here --- who make up an important part of the local economy. They pick fruit, work in the construction and customer service industries, doing the work that many people simply don't want to do for the low wages often paid with it.

To his credit, Putnam has come out in support of a guest worker programme which would allow those already hear illegally to eventually qualify for permanant residency or citizenship, although he does oppose the Senate's plan to grant such status based on the length of time one is here. However, his position runs contrary to a number of folks within the GOP leadership who simply favour a "send 'em all back" stance.

It's his first major issue as chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee, and he discussed the issue recently with Lakeland Ledger political reporter Bill Rufty, who makes it the subject of his column today.