Predictably, anti-immigrant groups said that including all children would cost billions more than the $400 million experts estimate.

The verbal exchanges grew scalding, as some anti-immigrant groups suggested deportation and alluded to more violence.

Despite the lack of details, the president's guidelines clearly do not constitute a sweeping amnesty, as some anti-immigrant groups are labeling it.

Ms. Calzada has learned how the attacks have emboldened some anti-immigrant groups.

Muslim leaders have been especially concerned that anti-immigrant groups may try to rile young Muslims.

"In my opinion, the national anti-immigrant groups, the nativist organizations, basically picked Georgia as a place where they could try to devolve immigration," he said.

The legalization idea faces stiff opposition from anti-immigrant groups and influential Republicans in Congress.

In Sweden, a requirement that a party have at least 4 percent of the popular vote to win parliamentary representation has prevented anti-immigrant groups from gaining seats.

Stern government action has at times undercut the appeal of anti-immigrant groups.

But anti-immigrant groups see it as "amnesty for illegals".