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Congressman-elect Cresent Hardy thanks supporters as Republicans gather to celebrate election victories, Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2014, at Red RockResort.

By Ana Ley (contact)

Friday, Feb. 20, 2015 | 8:45 p.m.

U.S. Rep. Cresent Hardy drew mixed reactions from Hispanic business leaders Friday afternoon while discussing immigration reform and the states struggling education system.

The congressman got a mostly warm reception at a luncheon put on by the Las Vegas Latin Chamber of Commerce, but the group became visibly tense when he criticized President Barack Obamas executive actions granting deportation relief to undocumented immigrants. One woman who declined to be named winced and rolled her eyes.

The chamber is very open to having politicians come in and talk about their views, Chairwoman Maggie Arias-Petrel said, noting that the group has no position on Obamas immigration deal.

Hardy, whose district includes minority-heavy North Las Vegas, also told the crowd that he has an obligation to create an opportunity for people to come here who are after the American Dream, and said he would do everything possible to keep families together.

Latin Chamber member Vida Lin said she was pleased to hear the congressman support immigration reform but disagreed with his view on the presidents deal because it moves immigrants one step forward. Lin and others at the event said they liked Hardys candor, even if they disagreed with his views.

Hardy highlighted the importance of addressing Nevadas broken education system and told the crowd that he wanted to support programs that provide English language development skills for students.

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Cresent Hardy speech draws mixed reaction from Latin Chamber