Republican presidential hopeful John McCain said Monday that the focus on illegal immigration during the Republican primary season harmed his party's image among Hispanics.

His comments came the same day that he launched a Spanish version of his campaign Web site and announced he would be attending the La Raza annual convention. The gathering by the powerful advocacy group is scheduled for July 14 in San Diego.

McCain spoke to reporters in Phoenix on Cinco de Mayo.

"On this day in 1862, a small group of Mexican troops overcame overwhelming force to win the Battle of Puebla," McCain said. "Today, we join together to remember the sacrifice that these Mexican patriots endured, as well as the struggles of all those around the world striving for freedom. We recognize as well the important friendship that exists between our country and Mexico, and celebrate the many contributions Mexican-Americans have made to our society, culture, security and economy."

McCain said that Hispanic citizens want America's borders secured and illegal immigrants to be treated humanely, adding that low-income Hispanic citizens are vulnerable to losing their jobs to the lower wages accepted by illegal immigrants.

On the subject of broader immigration policies, McCain said local governments would not have to take on immigration problems had the federal government overhauled the country's immigration policies.