Mediaboss Marketing

Originally published: February 21, 2014 9:24 PM Updated: February 21, 2014 10:17 PM By VCTOR MANUEL RAMOS victor.ramos@newsday.com

Congressman Peter King (R-Seaford), left, joined Long Islanders from Make the Road New York and other allied organizations in Brentwood on Friday, Feb. 21, 2014 for a discussion about the prospects of passing immigration reform this year. (Credit: Danielle Finkelstein)

It was an evening of good news and bad news for nearly 150 immigrants and advocates who packed a forum on immigration reform last night with Rep. Peter King.

The Seaford Republican told the standing-room-only crowd in Brentwood that he remains committed to "legalization and a pathway to citizenship" in a package of measures to fix a broken immigration system.

But he also said there was "significant opposition in the Republican Party" to proposed reform principles that were recently issued. Reform may be possible, the congressman said, though "maybe not this year, I'll be honest with you on that."

PHOTOS:Immigration debate on Long Island

RESEARCH: See how LI ranks in deportation

The political reality check landed with a thud for some, including Angel Atalaya, 59 and waiting 12 years for a chance to be a legal resident.

"I have waited a long time to come out of the shadows. I have even started my own business, and to hear 'Not right now' is very disappointing," Atalaya said. "It's all a political game."

Other advocates saw the progress report from King as a sign they at least have him on their side.

See the original post here:

Immigration reform should have citizenship pathway: Rep ...