Immigration is one of the chief issues that divides PBPs and Reactionaries. If the Senate used a secret ballot on a comprehensive immigration reform bill, there would be enough PBP votes for it to overcome a filibuster. What does that mean for Biden’s chances of success with his bill?
Nothing, because the Senate doesn’t use a secret ballot. Illegal immigration is one of the signature issues for the Reactionaries. Given the passion of the extreme right on the question, the PBPs have learned to sit down and shut up. No matter what they might think privately, and regardless of whether they supported the Obama bill, they aren’t going to risk irrevocably splitting the GOP and facing a primary by acquiescing to the Biden bill. If you don’t believe me, just ask Marco Rubio.
Biden has a better chance with narrow issues, such as protection of the Dreamers. There, public support is so strong, the PBPs might be willing to step out of line. My guess is that we will see a Dreamer bill in a matter of a few months, after the comprehensive bill dies a quick death.