Criticism leveled at new immigration panel

ATLANTA - The Anti-Defamation League has asked Gov. Nathan Deal to reconsider one of his choices for a new panel aimed at helping curb illegal immigration in Georgia.

The ADL said Wednesday the appointment of Phil Kent to the panel should be withdrawn, saying Kent has a history of making "deeply disturbing" comments about immigrants.

Kent brushed aside the criticism, calling the ADL "a left wing group."

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution also reports that the head of Georgia's Black Legilsative Caucus has blasted the panel for not being more diverse, noting that all seven of its members are white men.

A spokesman for the governor defended the make-up of the panel, saying its membership includes people with different professions and viewpoints but declined comment on the ADL's request concerning Kent.