Timing is everything in politics. Late next month, just as the conference committee that will decide the fate of an immigration bill gets down to business, a GOP primary for a Utah House seat in the country’s most conservative congressional district may set the boundaries for any legislation that has a chance of passing both the House and Senate.

Illegal immigration is the key issue in the race, and should five-term incumbent Rep. Chris Cannon of Provo lose to a restrictionist challenger, look for House Republicans to dig in their heels and block any bill that creates a path to citizenship for illegal aliens.

“House Republicans are already spooked about immigration, and should one of our own lose on the issue, you will see panic break out,” one GOP congressman told me. At the same time, several GOP pollsters, led by Whit Ayres, say their surveys show it is vital that Republicans pass some immigration bill this year to prove they can govern.

It looks as though we might finally be rid of Chris Cannon. He has been a parriah for a long time with his pro illegal immigration views. Being in such a conservative district, we can easily do better than him. His challenger, John Jacob, won the GOP State Convention poll 52% to 48%, but Utah law requires 60% in order to avoid a primary election. If the sentiment of the people is that of the Utah Republican State Committee then Mr. Jacob is in for a good election night celebration.

I don’t know much about Mr. Jacob, but from what I have read he appears to be a good conservative. What I really like about him is a statement he made during his campaign in the context that hiring illegal immigrants is creating a sub culture that is little different from slavery. I am in full agreement with his thoughts as I hold this belief as well.