As the Democratic Party tries to find its way on immigration, some of its longtime leaders on immigrant rights are leaving Congress or on their way out. Sen. Dick Durbin is headed for retirement. Former Sen. Bob Menendez resigned. Rep. Raúl Grijalva died.
But Democrats say there are plenty of champions for immigrant rights still in Congress, from newer members to others who are becoming more vocal.
“There are lots of people in the House and Senate engaged in immigration right now, and not just myself,” Sen. Chris Van Hollen said. “There are constantly new people, new voices, coupled with people who have been working on these issues for a long time.”