Immigration

I do not believe that it is realistically feasible to deport the millions of undocumented migrants currently residing in the United States.  Therefore, I support immigration reform that not only includes strengthening our borders but also addresses creating a pathway to citizenship, firmly and fairly enforcing the laws, and restoring and ensuring due process.  However, let me be clear, I do not believe that a wall or other physical obstruction is the best way to secure our border.  In fact, a physical barrier oftentimes makes enforcement more difficult than other means (e.g. technology); this is especially true when funding for such a barrier would mean a reduction in the very personnel charged with protecting our borders.

Additionally, we must address the issue of family reunification.  I have personally advocated for and sponsored legislation to allow families seeking legal citizenship in the United States to stay together.  I have seen numerous instances of families that have been divided because the family member who sponsored them passed away.  When considering these cases, we must keep in mind that these families have tried to do the right thing and it is not fair to penalize them by allowing their families to become broken because our immigration system is often slow, inefficient, inhumane, and expensive.

Recently, there has been much debate on the issue of DREAMers.  We must remember that these individuals were brought to our country without any say in the matter.  They have, through the DACA program, attempted to comply with the law and should not be penalized for their honesty.  Instead, we must find a way to ensure that DREAMers who have not broken any laws and have been contributing members of society, have a path forward in the only country they know.

Ultimately, any legislation or action taken on immigration must be free of racial and religious bias or discrimination.  I continue to oppose any measure that discriminates against an individual because of the color of their skin, the country of their origin, or the faith they follow.