Bush: Immigration system isn't working

David Jackson | USA TODAY

As President Obama and allies try to pressure the Republican House into passing an immigration bill, they got some support from predecessor George W. Bush -- sort of.

"I don't particularly want to be involved in the politics, or the specifics of policy, but I do hope there is a positive resolution to the debate," Bush said during an event Wednesday at his presidential institute in Dallas.

While Bush said he wanted to avoid the politics, he did speak just hours before the House Republican leadership holds a members' meeting to talk about what to do with the immigration bill passed this month by the Senate.

The former Republican president -- who spoke at an event in which 20 new American citizens were sworn in -- also said the immigration system is "broken" and needs fixing.

"I hope during the debate that we keep a benevolent spirit in mind," Bush said, "and we understand the contributions immigrants make to our country."

Some House Republicans say the proposed bill -- which includes a pathway to citizenship for those who are already in the country illegally -- would be ineffective, and amounts to amnesty for lawbreakers.

Said Bush: "We must remember that the vast majority of immigrants are decent people who work hard, and support their families, and practice their faith, and lead responsible lives. Some willingly defend the flag, including two about to take the oath here today."