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Illinois Republican leaders on Monday reiterated their support for comprehensive immigration reform at a gathering organized by business leaders who want congressional action.

But it was Archbishop Blase Cupich who delivered the most forceful remarks, saying that if lawmakers disagree with Democratic President Barack Obama's executive actions to prevent deportation of those who are here illegally, "then Congress should supersede them by passing comprehensive immigration reform legislation."

"Trying to block the president's executive order ... is not a serious proposal, nor an adult way to deal with this issue," said Cupich, who has made the issue a focus in his first months on the job in Chicago.

The new archbishop was the only panelist to draw a standing ovation at the event, which also featured speeches by Gov. Bruce Rauner, Sen. Mark Kirk and Reps. Aaron Schock, Adam Kinzinger and Bob Dold, all Republicans.

Cupich also received sustained applause when he scolded the Republican-led U.S. House for failing to take a vote on an immigration bill that cleared the U.S. Senate in 2013.

"It seems to me there has to be a discussion at least about that point, because if in fact we're really a representative government in this country, then the full membership, on such an important issue, should be able to discuss this issue and vote on that piece of legislation, up or down, one way or another," Cupich said.

Schock said supporters of the reform effort need to "activate" voters on the issue "so that those of us who need to take these votes have the support back in our district to do so."

Rauner offered general support for fixing the immigration system.

"We must find a way together to get comprehensive immigration reform done and encourage immigration streamlining and encourage hardworking, honest families who want to be part of our community to become American citizens," Rauner said.

kgeiger@tribpub.com

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Cupich, Rauner press for immigration reform deal