Republican fury over Barack Obama’s immigration changes

US president Barack Obama’s announcement of immigration changes that will protect nearly five million people living in the US illegally from deportation has infuriated Republicans.

Mr Obama’s measure, which will make nearly half of those living the US illegally eligible for work permits, has been criticised by Republicans as an amnesty for lawbreakers and abuse of presidential powers.

Mr Obama is scheduled to announce further details of the changes in Las Vegas at 8.55pm Irish time.

In a news conference today, House of Representatives speaker John Boehner accused Mr Obama of "damaging the presidency itself" with his unilateral action on immigration.

"I will say to you, the House will, in fact, act," Mr Boehner said. "We will listen to the American people, we will work with our members and we will work to protect the constitution of the United States. "

Conservative lawmakers are pushing to insert language in upcoming must-pass spending bills to block Mr Obama’s order. Party leaders warn that could lead to a government shutdown.

Some Republicans have discussed suing the president over his immigration orders, or expanding a lawsuit already planned over the health care law to include immigration, but they are concerned the action would take too long.

Challenge to Republicans

In a televised address to the nation on yesterday evening, Mr Obama defended his actions and issued a challenge to Republican lawmakers to focus their energy on approving long-stalled legislation.

"To those members of Congress who question my authority to make our immigration system work better, or question the wisdom of me acting where Congress has failed, I have one answer: Pass a bill," Mr Obama said.

The president announced new deportation priorities that would compel law enforcement to focus its efforts on tracking down serious criminals and people who have recently crossed the border, while specifically placing a low priority on those who have been in the United States for more than 10 years.

Mr Obama spent months trying to gain a House vote on the Senate bill, frustrating immigration advocates and some Democrats who wanted him to instead take action on his own.

More to follow.

PA