05:25 PM MST on Friday, January 14, 2005

Associated Press

CALDWELL -- Canyon County officials say they'll ask Governor Dirk Kempthorne to declare a disaster area because of illegal immigration to the area.

KTVB file photo

Canyon County Commissioner Robert Vasquez is behind a request asking Gov. Kempthorne to declare Canyon County a disaster area because of illegal immigration to the area.

The idea comes from Canyon County Commission Robert Vasquez, who has become widely known for his hard-line stance against immigration.

Earlier this week, Vasquez announced his intention to make the request. Another commissioner appears to have joined him.

Vasquez claims a new guide sets the stage for an imminent invasion of illegal aliens into the United States and Idaho.

Kempthorne's office says it hasn't seen any request, so it has no comment.