GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) - Tensions are flaring across the nation after a federal judge squashed parts Arizona's illegal immigration crackdown. The divide over the issue continues to be felt passionately across the Grand Valley.

A temporary kibosh was put on the most controversial parts of Arizona's crusade against illegal immigration. The federal judge's ruling Wednesday won't allow officers to check the immigration status of anyone they arrest or pull over. It was major win for the Obama administration.

"Obviously, it's a little bump in the road," said Arizona Governor Jan Brewer.

But it's a mountain of an issue for millions of Americans with heated opinions.

"I don't feel like they deserve to be here if they're here illegally. We should have every right to ask them for their papers," says Alyssa Ruth, who supports Arizona's new laws.

"I believe that they have the right to work. They shouldn't be questioned about whether they're citizens or immigrants. They are all here to work, so i believe they have the right," says Corina Bedolla, a staunch opposer of the legislation.

Most Coloradans on the Western Slope seem to have a strong stance, particularly those running for office.

"This is a federal issue. The feds, however, have waited too long for comprehensive immigration reform," says Democratic State Senate Candidate Claudette Konola.

"Illegal means illegal. We need to enforce laws we have," says Republican Colorado House Candidate Ray Scott.

The Secure Communities program would allow Colorado officers to screen fingerprints of anyone arrested through the ICE database, pinpointing illegals.

"Those little patchwork measures are causing division in the population in general," says Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition advocate Karen Sherman Perez.

Analysts say the final decision will likely be decided by the Supreme Court.