Obama Willing To Carve Immigration Bill Into Pieces

It's "easy" to shout about problems, said the President, but he is seeking a harder path designed "to use our democratic processes to achieve the same goal that you want to achieve. But it won't be as easy as just shouting."

As security guards moved to pull the protesters out of the room, Obama said those challenging him could stay.

"I respect the passion of these young people because they feel deeply about the concerns of their families," he said.

Earlier this year, the Democratic-led Senate passed an immigration bill about which India has some concerns as it imposes new restrictions and higher visa fees on firms that rely heavily on highly skilled foreign workers. But the Republican-run House has not taken action on the issue.

Republican House Speaker John Boehner has said his party wants to take a "step-by-step" approach to immigration challenges.

"The American people are sceptical of big, comprehensive bills, and frankly, they should be," Boehner said last week. "The only way to make sure immigration reform works this time is to address these complicated issues one step at a time."