If you need a replacement card right away and your issuer isn't helping, try calling Visa or Mastercard directly.

WSJ: Getting Going: The Hazards of Using Cards Abroad

They had considerable success earlier this year when they got the Texas state GOP to add a plank to their state platform calling for a guest worker visa.

FORBES: The GOP Battle Over Immigration Policy

But she refrained from taking the logical next step of calling for an increase in the overall annual visa cap.

WSJ: Crovitz: The Virtual March on Washington for Immigration