In the immigration debate, there seems to be a conflict between what many people want and the politically possible. Activists and immigrants hope Congress will soon act to amend the system. However, many lawmakers doubt there will be time to debate the matter this year. And even if they do come up with a compromise, their solution won’t be what a lot of advocates want.

Just hours before the bipartisan White House immigration meeting, families separated because of the current system offered their testimony at a Capitol Hill event. Daniel Grijalva of Phoenix told a crowd how Federal agents deported his wife about three years ago while she was pregnant with their daughter. An eight year old Rhode Island girl, Jeidy Par, spoke about her dad’s deportation and how difficult his absence has been. Many in the audience cried in response and want Congress to help these families.

But it’s important to remember than even lawmakers who support immigration reform aren’t necessarily in favor of a plan to immediately reunite these families. Even with Democrats in power, the word amnesty remains a political hot potato.

Participating lawmakers were full of optimism after their meeting with President Obama. Members from both parties agreed on the magnitude of the problem and the need to act. But the details are already causing controversy. For example, Senator John McCain is a strong advocate for a guest worker program while unions are more cautions about immigrant labor.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid says comprehensive immigration reform does have a chance of passing Congress. On the other hand, Presidential Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel says supporters don’t yet have the votes necessary. While there is momentum towards changing America’s immigration system, the debate won’t be easy and many will not be satisfied.

You can visit www.maribelhastings.com for a Spanish version of this blog. For questions, comments or tips you can reach me at mquinones@cncnews.org or ManuelQ on Twitter.