WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats are treading carefully when it comes to a proposed addition to the bipartisan immigration overhaul. It would let gay Americans sponsor their partners in other countries for visas, and the Democrats are concerned that by adding another divisive issue, they could lose Republican support and jeopardize the whole bill.

The White House says President Barack Obama supports including gay couples in the overhaul — but that the bill is a compromise and Obama isn't expecting to get everything he wants.

Sen. Patrick Leahy, a Vermont Democrat, is expected to offer the provision as an amendment. But even if it gets through the Senate, it faces tough odds in the Republican-controlled House.

That's not stopping gay rights organizations from pressing to make an estimated 28,500 gay couples eligible for sponsorship.