Jeb Bush remarks expose GOP vexed by immigration

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush AP FILE PHOTO

MIAMI — Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush set off a fury this week that served as a potent reminder of how difficult the immigration issue remains for the potential presidential contender and the Republican party.

The Republican establishment’s preferred White House hopeful described illegal immigration as an “act of love” by people hoping to provide for their families. The backlash from his own party was swift and stinging.

The issue could be one of biggest obstacles to the presidential nomination in 2016 for Bush, son and brother of ex-presidents. But some Republicans see an opportunity to repair relations with the fast-growing Hispanic-American population, which spurned Republican nominee Mitt Romney in 2012.

Comprehensive immigration legislation remains stalled in Congress and Republican presidential candidates are likely to face the issue again when they campaign.