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Republicans distance themselves from lawmaker over 'Operation Wetback'

Associated Press
Tucson, Arizona | Published: 10.03.2006
MESA – Republicans around Arizona are distancing themselves from a GOP state lawmaker who is calling to revive a massive 1950s deportation program for illegal immigrants.
State Rep. Russell Pearce of Mesa ignited controversy last week in a radio interview saying that he supports bringing back a federal deportation program called ''Operation Wetback.''
Hispanic leaders were furious over the use of the term ''wetback'' and criticized the lawmaker for using a racial slur on air.
Some Republicans flatly rejected Pearce's call for a large-scale deportation plan, while others defended Pearce's intentions and criticized his tact.
Pearce has defended his words, saying his reference to ''Operation Wetback'' was used in a historical context since the program was formed under the Eisenhower administration.
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