Good question. I think this is a big issue.

Politically it seems like a stupid move to me. He is making it obvious that he's playing politics with the issue. In short he is saying "I don't give a shit about you immigrants, it is just your votes that I care about". Shit, if I were them I'd be pissed too.

I looks like the big dick is screwed no matter what he does - or doesn't do.

I'm guessing *somebody* told him not to do it.