Immigration proved too hot for Bush, Congress to handle

But it is not surprising that lawmakers -- especially in conservative states -- fear political fallout because the bill provoked opposition that was striking in its intensity and viciousness. Critics threatened to seek primary opponents for Republican backers of the bill. Proponents were booed and heckled at party conventions and town-hall meetings. Some lawmakers received threats and reported them to the Capitol Police.

"You should go into the witness protection program because of your work on this issue," said one letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.).

The crucial Senate roll call last week reflected a bipartisan consensus that the bill was fraught with risk for anyone facing voters soon. Of the 33 senators who may run for reelection in 2008, 23 voted to kill the immigration bill.

That suggests that one legacy of the immigration imbroglio is a transformation of the issue from a shining opportunity for bipartisan cooperation into the new "third rail" of American politics -- an issue that, like Social Security reform, politicians will flee as if their political lives are at stake.

janet.hook@latimes.com