Clinton and Sanders argue about who is more pro-immigrant in stark contrast to Republican rhetoric

US presidential contenders Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders clashed forcefully over who was more pro-immigrant on the Democratic debate stage Wednesday, in the aftermath of Sanders’ stunning upset in Michigan.

With their Miami debate showdown coming just six days before the critical Florida primary, the two candidates were repeatedly pressed on immigration issues including whether they would deport undocumented children from the United States.

Both said they support comprehensive immigration reform and pathways to citizenship for many of the 11 million people living in the shadows.

In stark contrast, Republican candidates all say they want no such track to citizenship. Donald Trump, the Republican frontrunner, wants to deport millions.

But with Florida home to a large Hispanic community, frontrunner Clinton and her sole Democratic rival Sanders openly courted the Latino vote - each quickly said they would not expel the children of illegal immigrants, or undocumented adults with no criminal records.

It marked a break, too, of sorts from President Barack Obama’s administration, which has come under fire for its aggressive deportation policies regarding many of the 11 million.