Despite Criticism From GOP Base, Huckabee Defends His Stance On Illegal Immigration

Washington, DC (AHN)-Anti-illegal immigration groups blasted potential Republican presidential candidate, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, for his so-called "soft-stance" on the issue, despite GOP supporters calling for tougher measures to crack down on illegal immigration.

Huckabee, who has been making waves in Republican circles over his recent surge in primary polls in Iowa, defended his stance on the issue, even if it makes him unpopular among his GOP base.

While Huckabee said he does not support "sanctuary cities" or offering amnesty to illegal immigrants, the former governor was quick to point out that he does believe in giving illegal aliens the opportunity to gain legal status in the United States.

"Is my answer satisfactory to all the Republicans? The answer's 'no.'" Huckabee said. "Some people want me to be a lot harsher. I think my answer is the honest and the right one."

Huckabee said he supports strengthening the borders and stemming the flow of immigrants entering the country illegally, but admits he has not yet worked out a plan to determine who deserves a path to citizenship or how to best implement the program. Much to the dismay of many hardliner Republicans, Huckabee also expressed his support for illegal alien students to be able to get taxpayer-funded financial aid and college scholarships.

"Our country is better than that, to punish children for what their parents did in breaking the law. If that costs me the election, it costs me the election, but somewhere along the line we cannot just pander to the anger and hostility without challenging it," Huckabee said.