Here’s what Republicans really think about comprehensive immigration reform:
Michele Bachmann (MN-06)
Bachmann: “Not Doing Anything” for Children of Illegal Immigrants. In 2011, MSNBC reported that when asked by a college student what she would do to the children of illegal immigrants, Bachman responded she is “not doing anything to them” and then “described why she is against the federal government rewarding citizenship to the children of illegal immigrants.” [MSNBC First Read, 10/29/11]
Said American Way was “Not to Give Taxpayer Subsidized Benefits” to “People Who Have Broken Our Laws.” In 2011, during the CNN Tea Party Republican Debate, Bachman said “I think that the American way is not to give taxpayer subsidized benefits to people who have broken our laws or who are here in the United States illegally. That is not the American way. Because the immigration system in the United States worked very, very well up until the mid-1960s when liberal members of Congress changed the immigration laws.” [CNN Tea Party Republican Debate, 9/12/11]
Bachmann: "Begin the Process of Deportation." In 2011, during Fox News forum, Bachman said, “Right now the ICE agents -- those are the agents in the interior of the country who are tasked with enforcing the law -- they are not enforcing them and we also have sanctuary cities now where they don't enforce the laws on deportation. I think that what we simply need to do is to start enforcing the laws which we are not doing and begin the process of deportation.” [Huffington Post, 12/3/11]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congresswoman Bachmann voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Bachmann Signed a Pledge Vowing to Complete Border Fence with Mexico. "Michele Bachmann, struggling to regain a foothold in the GOP presidential race, opened a hard new front Saturday on immigration, signing a pledge to push to complete a fence along the entire Mexican border by 2013 and saying she would consider allowing federal agents to conduct raids to find illegal immigrants." [Los Angeles Times, 10/15/12]
Bachmann: “Not Doing Anything” for Children of Illegal Immigrants. In 2011, MSNBC reported that when asked by a college student what she would do to the children of illegal immigrants, Bachman responded she is “not doing anything to them” and then “described why she is against the federal government rewarding citizenship to the children of illegal immigrants.” [MSNBC First Read, 10/29/11]
Said American Way was “Not to Give Taxpayer Subsidized Benefits” to “People Who Have Broken Our Laws.” In 2011, during the CNN Tea Party Republican Debate, Bachman said “I think that the American way is not to give taxpayer subsidized benefits to people who have broken our laws or who are here in the United States illegally. That is not the American way. Because the immigration system in the United States worked very, very well up until the mid-1960s when liberal members of Congress changed the immigration laws.” [CNN Tea Party Republican Debate, 9/12/11]
Bachmann: "Begin the Process of Deportation." In 2011, during Fox News forum, Bachman said, “Right now the ICE agents -- those are the agents in the interior of the country who are tasked with enforcing the law -- they are not enforcing them and we also have sanctuary cities now where they don't enforce the laws on deportation. I think that what we simply need to do is to start enforcing the laws which we are not doing and begin the process of deportation.” [Huffington Post, 12/3/11]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congresswoman Bachmann voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Bachmann Signed a Pledge Vowing to Complete Border Fence with Mexico. "Michele Bachmann, struggling to regain a foothold in the GOP presidential race, opened a hard new front Saturday on immigration, signing a pledge to push to complete a fence along the entire Mexican border by 2013 and saying she would consider allowing federal agents to conduct raids to find illegal immigrants." [Los Angeles Times, 10/15/12]
Lou Barletta (PA-11)
Congressman Lou Barletta (PA-11): GOP Can’t “Win Over” Latino Vote. “I hope politics is not at the root of why we’re rushing to pass a bill. Anyone who believes that they’re going to win over the Latino vote is grossly mistaken,” Barletta said. “The majority that are here illegally are low-skilled or may not even have a high school diploma. The Republican Party is not going to compete over who can give more social programs out. They will become Democrats because of the social programs they’ll depend on.” [Huffington Post, 1/29/13]
Barletta Said There Should Be No Pathway to Citizenship. In 2013, Barletta said there should only be talk about border enforcement. “We should not be talking about any kind of pathway to citizenship if we were serious about solving the problem of illegal immigration. … We should only be talking about securing our borders,” said Barletta. [Politico, 4/11/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Barletta voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Lou Barletta (PA-11): GOP Can’t “Win Over” Latino Vote. “I hope politics is not at the root of why we’re rushing to pass a bill. Anyone who believes that they’re going to win over the Latino vote is grossly mistaken,” Barletta said. “The majority that are here illegally are low-skilled or may not even have a high school diploma. The Republican Party is not going to compete over who can give more social programs out. They will become Democrats because of the social programs they’ll depend on.” [Huffington Post, 1/29/13]
Barletta Said There Should Be No Pathway to Citizenship. In 2013, Barletta said there should only be talk about border enforcement. “We should not be talking about any kind of pathway to citizenship if we were serious about solving the problem of illegal immigration. … We should only be talking about securing our borders,” said Barletta. [Politico, 4/11/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Barletta voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Andy Barr (KY-06)
Congressman Andy Barr Said “State Governments Like Arizona” Should Have Jurisdiction on the Issue. “The federal government has completely abdicates its responsibility in this area. And as a matter of constitutional law, I can tell you this. That state governments like Arizona have concurrent jurisdiction, in my judgment, over this issue.” [YouTube, uploaded 10/22/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Barr voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Andy Barr Said “State Governments Like Arizona” Should Have Jurisdiction on the Issue. “The federal government has completely abdicates its responsibility in this area. And as a matter of constitutional law, I can tell you this. That state governments like Arizona have concurrent jurisdiction, in my judgment, over this issue.” [YouTube, uploaded 10/22/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Barr voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Dan Benishek (MI-01)
Unsure Whether Immigrant Children Should “Ever Have Citizenship.” In 2010, Benishek said that he wasn’t sure if, as a Congressman, he would vote to allow children of undocumented immigrants to obtain citizenship, “or even allow them to ever have citizenship.” Benishek said that “maybe they should get a green card or something. I would say 99 percent of the people that are here illegally should be going, but maybe some people deserve to stay. That’s the best way to put it I guess.” [iCaucus Interview with Dan Benishek]
Opposed Amnesty For Undocumented Immigrants. In 2010, Benishek oposed amnesty for illegal immigrants. “I’m saying we shouldn’t grant amnesty,” Benishek said. “I’m not saying we’ll get everyone out. Maybe somebody came in the country carried on their mother’s back when they were one year old and now they’ve been living in this country for 18 years, maybe that person should get a green card and not be deported. I’m just saying I don’t think we can get everybody out, but anybody who came over here of their own volition should be out. That’s the way I feel about it.” [iCaucus Interview with Dan Benishek]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Benishek voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Unsure Whether Immigrant Children Should “Ever Have Citizenship.” In 2010, Benishek said that he wasn’t sure if, as a Congressman, he would vote to allow children of undocumented immigrants to obtain citizenship, “or even allow them to ever have citizenship.” Benishek said that “maybe they should get a green card or something. I would say 99 percent of the people that are here illegally should be going, but maybe some people deserve to stay. That’s the best way to put it I guess.” [iCaucus Interview with Dan Benishek]
Opposed Amnesty For Undocumented Immigrants. In 2010, Benishek oposed amnesty for illegal immigrants. “I’m saying we shouldn’t grant amnesty,” Benishek said. “I’m not saying we’ll get everyone out. Maybe somebody came in the country carried on their mother’s back when they were one year old and now they’ve been living in this country for 18 years, maybe that person should get a green card and not be deported. I’m just saying I don’t think we can get everybody out, but anybody who came over here of their own volition should be out. That’s the way I feel about it.” [iCaucus Interview with Dan Benishek]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Benishek voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Paul Broun (GA-10)
Congressman Paul Broun: “Illegal Aliens are Criminals and We Need to Treat Them as Such.” “I’ve had a long discussion with some of my members, who are getting soft on the issue […] These illegal aliens are criminals and we need to treat them as such. I’m not in favor of giving amnesty to anybody who has broken the law.” [Huffington Post, 3/22/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Broun voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Paul Broun: “Illegal Aliens are Criminals and We Need to Treat Them as Such.” “I’ve had a long discussion with some of my members, who are getting soft on the issue […] These illegal aliens are criminals and we need to treat them as such. I’m not in favor of giving amnesty to anybody who has broken the law.” [Huffington Post, 3/22/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Broun voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Vern Buchanan (FL-16)
Congressman Vern Buchanan Said “Arizona is Doing What Must be Done.” In 2010, the Bradenton Herald reported that Buchanan “said Arizona is doing what must be done to protect its border with Mexico.” Buchanan said, “The state of Arizona is responding to the federal government’s failure to secure our borders and enforce the nation’s immigration laws […] Congress should reject amnesty and heed the American people’s call for border security and keeping terrorists, drug lords and illegal gang members out of the United States.” [Bradenton Herald, 5/01/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Buchanan voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Vern Buchanan Said “Arizona is Doing What Must be Done.” In 2010, the Bradenton Herald reported that Buchanan “said Arizona is doing what must be done to protect its border with Mexico.” Buchanan said, “The state of Arizona is responding to the federal government’s failure to secure our borders and enforce the nation’s immigration laws […] Congress should reject amnesty and heed the American people’s call for border security and keeping terrorists, drug lords and illegal gang members out of the United States.” [Bradenton Herald, 5/01/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Buchanan voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Larry Bucshon (IN-08)
Opposed to “Amnesty for Illegal Aliens.” According to Bucshon’s campaign website, “I am against amnesty for illegal aliens. We need to strongly enforce the immigration laws that already exist. Provide funding for stronger border fencing and control along the U.S./Mexican border. We need to hold employers accountable who knowingly hire illegal immigrants.” [Bucshon for Congress, accessed 5/04/10]
Opposed Amnesty for Immigrants. In 2012, Bucshon opposed amnesty for illegal immigrants. “I do not support amnesty and believe the government should focus on enforcing current immigration laws,” Bucshon said. [Office of Larry Bucshon, accessed 4/05/12]
Criticized DHS Decision to Stop Deporting Undocumented Immigrants. In 2011, Bucshon criticized the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to stop the deportation of illegal immigrants. “Their outright refusal to uphold and enforce our nation's laws is absolutely wrong and very troubling,” Bucshon said. [Office of Larry Bucshon, 8/19/11]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Bucshon voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Opposed to “Amnesty for Illegal Aliens.” According to Bucshon’s campaign website, “I am against amnesty for illegal aliens. We need to strongly enforce the immigration laws that already exist. Provide funding for stronger border fencing and control along the U.S./Mexican border. We need to hold employers accountable who knowingly hire illegal immigrants.” [Bucshon for Congress, accessed 5/04/10]
Opposed Amnesty for Immigrants. In 2012, Bucshon opposed amnesty for illegal immigrants. “I do not support amnesty and believe the government should focus on enforcing current immigration laws,” Bucshon said. [Office of Larry Bucshon, accessed 4/05/12]
Criticized DHS Decision to Stop Deporting Undocumented Immigrants. In 2011, Bucshon criticized the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to stop the deportation of illegal immigrants. “Their outright refusal to uphold and enforce our nation's laws is absolutely wrong and very troubling,” Bucshon said. [Office of Larry Bucshon, 8/19/11]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Bucshon voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Mike Coffman (CO-06)
Co-Sponsored Birthright Citizenship Act. In 2011, Coffman co-sponsored the Birthright Citizenship Act. [Denver Post, 2/13/11]
Said DREAM Act Would be a “Nightmare” for Americans. In 2010, Coffman said that the DREAM Act would be “a nightmare” for Americans. “The Dream Act will be a nightmare for the American people. No doubt, we need immigration reform but the Dream Act is written far too broadly and it will only encourage more illegal immigration, promote chain migration, and will be a magnet for fraud,” he said. [Office of Mike Coffman, 12/08/10]
Signed Amicus Brief Supporting Arizona’s Immigration Law. In 2010, Coffman signed an amicus brief supporting Arizona’s appeal of a federal district court’s decision that sections of the state’s new immigration enforcement law were unconstitutional. “The brief we are filing reasserts principles put forward in the first congressional brief and goes into new detail on the errors of Judge Bolton’s findings. This brief asserts that on many different occasions the District Court erred in holding that the executive branch’s enforcement authority pre-empts key provisions of the law. It also asserts Congress has plenary power over immigration law and has enacted laws that the executive branch has failed to enforce. We maintain that it is not the right of any administration to decide which laws to enforce and which to ignore,” Coffman said. “This past weekend I met with Arizona State Senator Russell Pearce, author of the new Arizona law, while in Phoenix. When meeting with Sen. Pearce he shared that during the drafting of S.B. 1070 constitutional scholars were consulted specifically in anticipation of federal litigation. He firmly believes the law will stand up to legal challenges by the Obama administration.” [Office of Mike Coffman, 9/02/10]
Coffman Suggested Immigrants Brought Relatives to the U.S. "With the Understanding That They're Going to be Covered" by Welfare. In 1996, Coffman suggested that immigrants brought elderly relatives to the United States “with the understanding that they’re going to be covered” by welfare. [Denver Post, 1/13/97]
Would Continue Tom Tancredo’s Fight Against “Amnesty.” In 2008, Coffman said he would vote against policies that granted amnesty to undocumented immigrants. “I will continue the fight Congressman Tancredo has lead for many years and vote against any legislation that would grant amnesty to those who entered our country illegally,” he said. [Coffman for Congress, 4/20/08]
Coffman Said Former Congressman Tom Tancredo Was His Hero. In 2010, while speaking at a Tea Party Express event Coffman said, “It is a great honor for me to introduce, somebody that is my hero. Somebody that has served this country with honor and integrity and courage. Somebody when the republican establishment in Washington went so and violated the principles that got them elected, who did not stand with them and that is former congressman Tom Tancredo.” [YouTube, uploaded 3/31/10]
“Undecided” on Pathway to Citizenship. In 2013, Coffman said he was still undecided on a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. Coffman, on whether he supported a pathway to citizenship said “I'm still undecided. I have to see what the rest of the compromise is ... To govern, you have to compromise.” [Denver Post, 6/27/13]
Concerned about the Senate Immigration bill because "Promises Were Not Kept" in 1986 on Border Security. In 2013, Coffman said he was concerned about the Senate Immigration bill, because of the promises not kept surrounding the 1986 immigration reform. “I appreciate the effort that my colleagues in the Senate have made in trying to fix a badly broken immigration system but I'm still concerned because the promises made in the 1986 immigration reform bill on enforcement and border security were not promises kept. I will work for solutions in the House that will provide for the reforms necessary to not only secure our borders but to verify that they remain secure,” Coffman said. [Coffman Press Release, 6/27/13]
Said he favored providing Legal Status to Undocumented Immigrants and a Pathway to Citizenship for their Children. In 2013, Coffman “told a packed church in Aurora that he now favored providing legal status to undocumented immigrants and pathways to citizenship for their children,” according to the Colorado Independent. [Colorado Independent, 6/06/13]
Criticized Obama Administration’s Decision to Dismiss Some Deportation Cases. In 2011, Coffman criticized the Obama Administration’s decision to dismiss deportation cases for undocumented students and other low-priority immigration offenders. “Today’s decision by the Obama administration to effectively grant backdoor amnesty to many illegal immigrants facing deportation usurps the authority of Congress,” he said. [Denver Post, 8/19/11]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Coffman voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Claimed he Supported "A Path to Citizenship for the Children who Grew up and Graduated from School Here." “I strongly support giving a path to citizenship for the children who grew up and graduated from school here as part of a comprehensive immigration reform package but within these I.C.E. memos there is simply too much prosecutorial discretion,” Coffman said. [Fox 31, 6/06/13]
Co-Sponsored Birthright Citizenship Act. In 2011, Coffman co-sponsored the Birthright Citizenship Act. [Denver Post, 2/13/11]
Said DREAM Act Would be a “Nightmare” for Americans. In 2010, Coffman said that the DREAM Act would be “a nightmare” for Americans. “The Dream Act will be a nightmare for the American people. No doubt, we need immigration reform but the Dream Act is written far too broadly and it will only encourage more illegal immigration, promote chain migration, and will be a magnet for fraud,” he said. [Office of Mike Coffman, 12/08/10]
Signed Amicus Brief Supporting Arizona’s Immigration Law. In 2010, Coffman signed an amicus brief supporting Arizona’s appeal of a federal district court’s decision that sections of the state’s new immigration enforcement law were unconstitutional. “The brief we are filing reasserts principles put forward in the first congressional brief and goes into new detail on the errors of Judge Bolton’s findings. This brief asserts that on many different occasions the District Court erred in holding that the executive branch’s enforcement authority pre-empts key provisions of the law. It also asserts Congress has plenary power over immigration law and has enacted laws that the executive branch has failed to enforce. We maintain that it is not the right of any administration to decide which laws to enforce and which to ignore,” Coffman said. “This past weekend I met with Arizona State Senator Russell Pearce, author of the new Arizona law, while in Phoenix. When meeting with Sen. Pearce he shared that during the drafting of S.B. 1070 constitutional scholars were consulted specifically in anticipation of federal litigation. He firmly believes the law will stand up to legal challenges by the Obama administration.” [Office of Mike Coffman, 9/02/10]
Coffman Suggested Immigrants Brought Relatives to the U.S. "With the Understanding That They're Going to be Covered" by Welfare. In 1996, Coffman suggested that immigrants brought elderly relatives to the United States “with the understanding that they’re going to be covered” by welfare. [Denver Post, 1/13/97]
Would Continue Tom Tancredo’s Fight Against “Amnesty.” In 2008, Coffman said he would vote against policies that granted amnesty to undocumented immigrants. “I will continue the fight Congressman Tancredo has lead for many years and vote against any legislation that would grant amnesty to those who entered our country illegally,” he said. [Coffman for Congress, 4/20/08]
Coffman Said Former Congressman Tom Tancredo Was His Hero. In 2010, while speaking at a Tea Party Express event Coffman said, “It is a great honor for me to introduce, somebody that is my hero. Somebody that has served this country with honor and integrity and courage. Somebody when the republican establishment in Washington went so and violated the principles that got them elected, who did not stand with them and that is former congressman Tom Tancredo.” [YouTube, uploaded 3/31/10]
“Undecided” on Pathway to Citizenship. In 2013, Coffman said he was still undecided on a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. Coffman, on whether he supported a pathway to citizenship said “I'm still undecided. I have to see what the rest of the compromise is ... To govern, you have to compromise.” [Denver Post, 6/27/13]
Concerned about the Senate Immigration bill because "Promises Were Not Kept" in 1986 on Border Security. In 2013, Coffman said he was concerned about the Senate Immigration bill, because of the promises not kept surrounding the 1986 immigration reform. “I appreciate the effort that my colleagues in the Senate have made in trying to fix a badly broken immigration system but I'm still concerned because the promises made in the 1986 immigration reform bill on enforcement and border security were not promises kept. I will work for solutions in the House that will provide for the reforms necessary to not only secure our borders but to verify that they remain secure,” Coffman said. [Coffman Press Release, 6/27/13]
Said he favored providing Legal Status to Undocumented Immigrants and a Pathway to Citizenship for their Children. In 2013, Coffman “told a packed church in Aurora that he now favored providing legal status to undocumented immigrants and pathways to citizenship for their children,” according to the Colorado Independent. [Colorado Independent, 6/06/13]
Criticized Obama Administration’s Decision to Dismiss Some Deportation Cases. In 2011, Coffman criticized the Obama Administration’s decision to dismiss deportation cases for undocumented students and other low-priority immigration offenders. “Today’s decision by the Obama administration to effectively grant backdoor amnesty to many illegal immigrants facing deportation usurps the authority of Congress,” he said. [Denver Post, 8/19/11]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Coffman voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
- Colorado Independent: Had Coffman Voted Against Amendment, He Woud've "Demonstrate[d] the Sincerity of his New Softer Approach to Immigration." The Colorado Independent wrote that by had Coffman opposed the King amendment it “would have been an easy way for Coffman to demonstrate the sincerity of his new softer approach to immigration and tamp down criticism on the left that his conversion is mere political opportunism that should fail to fool voters.” [Colorado Independent, 6/06/13]
Claimed he Supported "A Path to Citizenship for the Children who Grew up and Graduated from School Here." “I strongly support giving a path to citizenship for the children who grew up and graduated from school here as part of a comprehensive immigration reform package but within these I.C.E. memos there is simply too much prosecutorial discretion,” Coffman said. [Fox 31, 6/06/13]
Steve Daines (MT-AL)
Daines will “Stop” Senate Bill from Vote in House. In 2013, Daines said the Senate immigration bill was the wrong approach, suggesting that it was for amnesty. “I believe that the bill passed by the Senate today is the wrong approach to immigration reform, and I will work to stop it should it reach the House… I will not support proposals that contain amnesty for illegal immigrants currently in our country. We cannot repeat past mistakes by rewarding unlawful behavior — the rule of law is a fundamental foundation of our country, and it must be protected.” [Great Falls Tribune, 6/27/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Daines voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Daines will “Stop” Senate Bill from Vote in House. In 2013, Daines said the Senate immigration bill was the wrong approach, suggesting that it was for amnesty. “I believe that the bill passed by the Senate today is the wrong approach to immigration reform, and I will work to stop it should it reach the House… I will not support proposals that contain amnesty for illegal immigrants currently in our country. We cannot repeat past mistakes by rewarding unlawful behavior — the rule of law is a fundamental foundation of our country, and it must be protected.” [Great Falls Tribune, 6/27/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Daines voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Rodney Davis (IL-13)
Called President’s Deportation Order “Political.” Responding to President Obama’s June 2012 move to stop deporting undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. at a young age, Davis said, “I think the president’s order was blatantly political, and everyone sees through it. That’s not leadership. We need a comprehensive immigration plan that begins with securing our borders, and it should go through the legislative process — not by any edict or by some order from the president.” [State Journal-Register, 6/23/12]
Called the DREAM Act an “Amnesty Plan.” Davis reiterated his point when asked if he supported the DREAM Act: “I’m not for any amnesty plan,” Davis said. “We need to address ... those immigrants who may be here through no fault of their own. It has to be part of a comprehensive immigration plan and not just a blatantly political ploy by President Obama to try and get votes.” [State Journal-Register, 6/23/12]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Davis voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Called President’s Deportation Order “Political.” Responding to President Obama’s June 2012 move to stop deporting undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. at a young age, Davis said, “I think the president’s order was blatantly political, and everyone sees through it. That’s not leadership. We need a comprehensive immigration plan that begins with securing our borders, and it should go through the legislative process — not by any edict or by some order from the president.” [State Journal-Register, 6/23/12]
Called the DREAM Act an “Amnesty Plan.” Davis reiterated his point when asked if he supported the DREAM Act: “I’m not for any amnesty plan,” Davis said. “We need to address ... those immigrants who may be here through no fault of their own. It has to be part of a comprehensive immigration plan and not just a blatantly political ploy by President Obama to try and get votes.” [State Journal-Register, 6/23/12]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Davis voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Jeff Denham (CA-10)
Denham: “I Fully Support” Arizona Immigration Enforcement Law. In 2010, Denham opposed calls for California to boycott Arizona because of its new immigration law and that he fully supported the law: “A ‘You boycott me, I’ll boycott you’ scenario is a risk California cannot afford to take. Arizona has every right to protect its citizens and I fully support its immigration law,” said Denham. [Modesto Bee, 6/24/10]
Denham Opposed the DREAM Act. In 2012, at a Latino Community Roundtable, Denham said he opposed the DREAM Act that would provide legal status for young people born to parents of undocumented immigrants who met certain criteria. [Ceres Courier, 4/18/12]
Voted Against California DREAM Act. In 2008, as State Senator, Denham voted against a version of the DREAM Act in the California State Senate Education Committee that would allow undocumented students to be eligible for scholarships and grants offered by California’s community colleges, state universities and campuses in the University of California system. [Sacramento Bee, 4/14/08]
Denham: Called for Deportation of Undocumented Immigrants. In 2010, when asked whether illegal immigrants should be arrested, detained or deported, Denham said “A simple answer is, yes, we’ve got to uphold the laws of our state, laws of our nation.” [Tower Theater Republican Primary Debate, 5/17/10]
Opposed “The Great American Boycott of 2006” That Protested Harsh Immigration Bill in Congress. In 2006, as State Senator, Denham voted against a resolution that recognized and declared May 1 to be “The great American Boycott 2006.” The resolution was in response to the 1 million immigrants and supporters who protested in cities across California and the nation against the House of Representatives bill that would instantly convert up to 12 million illegal immigrants in the United States into felons and open up the possibility of felony prosecution of people who would be accused of helping undocumented people remain the U.S. [Sacramento Bee, 5/02/06; SCR 113, Votes, 4/27/06; San Francisco Chronicle, 4/28/06]
Fresno Bee: Denham “Opposes Amnesty, Wants Tougher Border Controls.” In 2010, according to Fresno Bee, Denham “opposes amnesty, wants tougher border controls,” and would support “a temporary guest worker program for agriculture only after the border is secured.” [Fresno Bee, 9/19/10]
Voted Against Barring Language Discrimination Against Immigrants by Businesses. In 2009, as state senator, Denham voted against legislation that “would prohibit a business from adopting a policy that requires limits or prohibits the use of any language within a business establishment. The bill was in response to stories of businesses discriminating against immigrants. [SB 242, Votes, 9/02/09; Los Angeles Times, 4/17/09]
Twice Voted Against Driver’s Licenses for Undocumented Immigrants. As State Senator, Denham twice voted against legislation that would require California to issue driver’s licenses, solely for driving purposes to applicants that are unable to provide evidence of lawful status. [SB 60, Votes, 8/31/08; SB 1160, Votes, 6/01/06]
Supports Immigration Reform that Includes Guest Worker Program and “Earned Legal Status.” In April 2013, Denham said he hoped for immigration reform that included a “guest worker” program for farmers and “earned legal status” for people who qualified to stay in the United States. “We’ve got an opportunity to fix a multigenerational problem. It’s been about three decades of challenges that have gotten more and more complex.” [Modesto Bee, 4/04/13]
Denham: We Have to Have a Comprehensive Immigration Bill. In 2013, Denham said he believes “very strongly we have to have a comprehensive bill. There are too many different pieces to this that affect different segments of California.” [KPCC, 6/05/13]
Denham: “I Fully Support” Arizona Immigration Enforcement Law. In 2010, Denham opposed calls for California to boycott Arizona because of its new immigration law and that he fully supported the law: “A ‘You boycott me, I’ll boycott you’ scenario is a risk California cannot afford to take. Arizona has every right to protect its citizens and I fully support its immigration law,” said Denham. [Modesto Bee, 6/24/10]
Denham Opposed the DREAM Act. In 2012, at a Latino Community Roundtable, Denham said he opposed the DREAM Act that would provide legal status for young people born to parents of undocumented immigrants who met certain criteria. [Ceres Courier, 4/18/12]
Voted Against California DREAM Act. In 2008, as State Senator, Denham voted against a version of the DREAM Act in the California State Senate Education Committee that would allow undocumented students to be eligible for scholarships and grants offered by California’s community colleges, state universities and campuses in the University of California system. [Sacramento Bee, 4/14/08]
Denham: Called for Deportation of Undocumented Immigrants. In 2010, when asked whether illegal immigrants should be arrested, detained or deported, Denham said “A simple answer is, yes, we’ve got to uphold the laws of our state, laws of our nation.” [Tower Theater Republican Primary Debate, 5/17/10]
- Denham Advocated Police Enforcing Immigration Laws and Deporting Undocumented Immigrants. In 2010, during the Republican primary, Denham said “As our police officers pull over somebody and they find they don’t have the proper documentation and they’re breaking the law, we need to enforce that law. And yes, that means deportation. In the long term, absolutely we’ve got to have a program that works. But today, we’ve got real problems. Arizona has taken those problems into their own hands. If a small state like Arizona can do it, our large ag-economy, our large state, our big economic driver can do it as well.” [ABC30 Republican Primary Debate, 5/22/10]
Opposed “The Great American Boycott of 2006” That Protested Harsh Immigration Bill in Congress. In 2006, as State Senator, Denham voted against a resolution that recognized and declared May 1 to be “The great American Boycott 2006.” The resolution was in response to the 1 million immigrants and supporters who protested in cities across California and the nation against the House of Representatives bill that would instantly convert up to 12 million illegal immigrants in the United States into felons and open up the possibility of felony prosecution of people who would be accused of helping undocumented people remain the U.S. [Sacramento Bee, 5/02/06; SCR 113, Votes, 4/27/06; San Francisco Chronicle, 4/28/06]
Fresno Bee: Denham “Opposes Amnesty, Wants Tougher Border Controls.” In 2010, according to Fresno Bee, Denham “opposes amnesty, wants tougher border controls,” and would support “a temporary guest worker program for agriculture only after the border is secured.” [Fresno Bee, 9/19/10]
Voted Against Barring Language Discrimination Against Immigrants by Businesses. In 2009, as state senator, Denham voted against legislation that “would prohibit a business from adopting a policy that requires limits or prohibits the use of any language within a business establishment. The bill was in response to stories of businesses discriminating against immigrants. [SB 242, Votes, 9/02/09; Los Angeles Times, 4/17/09]
Twice Voted Against Driver’s Licenses for Undocumented Immigrants. As State Senator, Denham twice voted against legislation that would require California to issue driver’s licenses, solely for driving purposes to applicants that are unable to provide evidence of lawful status. [SB 60, Votes, 8/31/08; SB 1160, Votes, 6/01/06]
Supports Immigration Reform that Includes Guest Worker Program and “Earned Legal Status.” In April 2013, Denham said he hoped for immigration reform that included a “guest worker” program for farmers and “earned legal status” for people who qualified to stay in the United States. “We’ve got an opportunity to fix a multigenerational problem. It’s been about three decades of challenges that have gotten more and more complex.” [Modesto Bee, 4/04/13]
Denham: We Have to Have a Comprehensive Immigration Bill. In 2013, Denham said he believes “very strongly we have to have a comprehensive bill. There are too many different pieces to this that affect different segments of California.” [KPCC, 6/05/13]
Blake Farenthold (TX-27)
Congressman Blake Farenthold Opposed President’s Immigration Directive Because 16-Year-Olds “Had Say” in Border Crossing. “Rep. Blake Farenthold (R-TX) addresses President Obama’s recent policy on immigration and says some teen immigrants could have had a conversation with their parents before coming to the United States. Farenthold says, ‘You’re also talking about people that came over at 16 years of age. At that point [they] had a say in it. And that looks kind of more like amnesty…They’re certainly in a position to have a conversation with their parents about it.” [CNN, 6/18/12]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Farenthold voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Blake Farenthold Opposed President’s Immigration Directive Because 16-Year-Olds “Had Say” in Border Crossing. “Rep. Blake Farenthold (R-TX) addresses President Obama’s recent policy on immigration and says some teen immigrants could have had a conversation with their parents before coming to the United States. Farenthold says, ‘You’re also talking about people that came over at 16 years of age. At that point [they] had a say in it. And that looks kind of more like amnesty…They’re certainly in a position to have a conversation with their parents about it.” [CNN, 6/18/12]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Farenthold voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-08)
Fitzpatrick Said That Stronger Border Security and Forcing New Citizens to Learn English was “Tough Medicine” For Folks to Hear. In June 2013, Fitzpatrick addressed the Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce in Quakertown and “reiterated that border security and having the country’s newest citizens learn English are two key elements he supports” in immigration reform. Fitzpatrick said, “I know that’s tough medicine for a lot of folks to hear.” [Phillyburbs.com, 6/21/13]
Fitzpatrick Slammed His Opponent For Not Opposing The Obama Administration’s Lawsuit Against the Arizona Immigration Law. In 2010, Fitzpatrick issued a news release calling on his opponent to oppose the Obama administration’s lawsuit challenging S.B. 1070, Arizona’s stringent anti-immigration law. [Morning Call, 7/13/10]
Fitzpatrick Opposed The Use of Prosecutorial Discretion in Deportation Cases. In 2011, Fitzpatrick signed a letter opposing Obama’s announcement that the administration would use prosecutorial discretion in reviewing deportation cases, saying it was a “step backwards.” [New York Times, 8/19/11, Fitzpatrick, via States News Service, 9/21/11]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Fitzpatrick voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Fitzpatrick Said That Stronger Border Security and Forcing New Citizens to Learn English was “Tough Medicine” For Folks to Hear. In June 2013, Fitzpatrick addressed the Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce in Quakertown and “reiterated that border security and having the country’s newest citizens learn English are two key elements he supports” in immigration reform. Fitzpatrick said, “I know that’s tough medicine for a lot of folks to hear.” [Phillyburbs.com, 6/21/13]
Fitzpatrick Slammed His Opponent For Not Opposing The Obama Administration’s Lawsuit Against the Arizona Immigration Law. In 2010, Fitzpatrick issued a news release calling on his opponent to oppose the Obama administration’s lawsuit challenging S.B. 1070, Arizona’s stringent anti-immigration law. [Morning Call, 7/13/10]
Fitzpatrick Opposed The Use of Prosecutorial Discretion in Deportation Cases. In 2011, Fitzpatrick signed a letter opposing Obama’s announcement that the administration would use prosecutorial discretion in reviewing deportation cases, saying it was a “step backwards.” [New York Times, 8/19/11, Fitzpatrick, via States News Service, 9/21/11]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Fitzpatrick voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Virginia Foxx (NC-05)
Congresswoman Virginia Foxx Agreed That Immigration was An “Invasion.” “‘My problem is with immigration,’ said a caller named Dana. ‘Except I wouldn’t even call it immigration, I’d call it an invasion.’ Dana went on to say that the present situation qualifies as such because people are coming here from other countries and taking advantage of U.S. social programs and taking jobs from Americans. ‘I agree with you,’ Foxx said […] A called named Lessie said she is troubled by ‘seeing all these illegals streamlining into the country’ from ‘Mexico’ and ‘Afghanistan.’ She wondered ‘how many of them are terrorists.’ Lessie said a solution would be to use a ‘drag net and round them all up.’ Foxx told Lessie the sentiments she expressed are ‘very much in the majority.’” [Statesville Record & Landmark, 6/09/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congresswoman Foxx voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congresswoman Virginia Foxx Agreed That Immigration was An “Invasion.” “‘My problem is with immigration,’ said a caller named Dana. ‘Except I wouldn’t even call it immigration, I’d call it an invasion.’ Dana went on to say that the present situation qualifies as such because people are coming here from other countries and taking advantage of U.S. social programs and taking jobs from Americans. ‘I agree with you,’ Foxx said […] A called named Lessie said she is troubled by ‘seeing all these illegals streamlining into the country’ from ‘Mexico’ and ‘Afghanistan.’ She wondered ‘how many of them are terrorists.’ Lessie said a solution would be to use a ‘drag net and round them all up.’ Foxx told Lessie the sentiments she expressed are ‘very much in the majority.’” [Statesville Record & Landmark, 6/09/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congresswoman Foxx voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Jim Gerlach (PA-06)
Gerlach Complained of “Porous Borders” And Supported Increases in Border Security. According to his campaign website, “Congressman Gerlach believes all immigration must be legal. The federal government fails to do its job when it does not know who is in the country at any given time, and that is a result of porous borders. To that end, Jim has consistently supported stricter border enforcement, including substantial increases in Border Patrol agents, the construction of a fence along our southern border, and high-tech monitoring to curb the flow of illegal immigrants into our country.” [Gerlach for Congress, Accessed 5/7/13]
Gerlach Claimed Amnesty Would “Bankrupt and Ruin Social Security and Medicare.” On his campaign website, Gerlach said, “Granting amnesty to 10-15 million illegal immigrants rewards those who broke our laws and would bankrupt and ruin Social Security and Medicare. Congressman Gerlach opposes any plan that grants amnesty.” [Gerlach for Congress, accessed 5/7/13]
Gerlach Supported E-Verify Program. According to his campaign website, “Jim supports programs like E-Verify to allow business owners to confirm legal status of their workers with the federal government.” [Gerlach for Congress, Accessed 5/7/13]
Gerlach Said He Needed more Details on Immigration Reform Legislation. Gerlach said of immigration reform: “We really need to see details, not just an outline before deciding whether the Senate's proposal includes effective solutions. Most folks in my district say securing our border and knowing who is coming in and out of the United States must be a priority. Further, no proposal should allow blanket amnesty for those who knowingly violated our laws. So I'll be looking closely at that those areas should legislation come to the House floor in the coming weeks.” [Reading Eagle, 1/30/13]
Gerlach Complained of “Porous Borders” And Supported Increases in Border Security. According to his campaign website, “Congressman Gerlach believes all immigration must be legal. The federal government fails to do its job when it does not know who is in the country at any given time, and that is a result of porous borders. To that end, Jim has consistently supported stricter border enforcement, including substantial increases in Border Patrol agents, the construction of a fence along our southern border, and high-tech monitoring to curb the flow of illegal immigrants into our country.” [Gerlach for Congress, Accessed 5/7/13]
Gerlach Claimed Amnesty Would “Bankrupt and Ruin Social Security and Medicare.” On his campaign website, Gerlach said, “Granting amnesty to 10-15 million illegal immigrants rewards those who broke our laws and would bankrupt and ruin Social Security and Medicare. Congressman Gerlach opposes any plan that grants amnesty.” [Gerlach for Congress, accessed 5/7/13]
Gerlach Supported E-Verify Program. According to his campaign website, “Jim supports programs like E-Verify to allow business owners to confirm legal status of their workers with the federal government.” [Gerlach for Congress, Accessed 5/7/13]
Gerlach Said He Needed more Details on Immigration Reform Legislation. Gerlach said of immigration reform: “We really need to see details, not just an outline before deciding whether the Senate's proposal includes effective solutions. Most folks in my district say securing our border and knowing who is coming in and out of the United States must be a priority. Further, no proposal should allow blanket amnesty for those who knowingly violated our laws. So I'll be looking closely at that those areas should legislation come to the House floor in the coming weeks.” [Reading Eagle, 1/30/13]
Bob Gibbs (OH-07)
Gibbs: “It Is Clear That Reforms Need to Put in Place That Not Only Enforce Current Laws,” But Also Protect Agricultural Interests. Following a round table meeting about immigration reform, Bob Gibbs released a statement saying: “It is clear that reforms need to be put in place that not only enforce current laws, but also ensure that we are able to maintain an able and skillful workforce within the agricultural industry. Farming operations depend on it. We cannot let these important job creators lose out on millions of dollars because of the difficulty in maintaining their workforce.” [Office of Bob Gibbs, 2/21/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Gibbs voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Gibbs: “It Is Clear That Reforms Need to Put in Place That Not Only Enforce Current Laws,” But Also Protect Agricultural Interests. Following a round table meeting about immigration reform, Bob Gibbs released a statement saying: “It is clear that reforms need to be put in place that not only enforce current laws, but also ensure that we are able to maintain an able and skillful workforce within the agricultural industry. Farming operations depend on it. We cannot let these important job creators lose out on millions of dollars because of the difficulty in maintaining their workforce.” [Office of Bob Gibbs, 2/21/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Gibbs voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Louie Gohmert (TX-01)
Congressman Louie Gohmert Said Al Quaeda Operatives Are Infiltrating Border Through Mexico by “Act[ing] Hispanic.” In April 2013, Gohmert appeared on C-SPAN's Washington Journal and said: “We know Al Qaeda has camps over with the drug cartels on the other side of the Mexican border. We know that people are now being trained to come in and act like Hispanics when they are radical Islamists.” [C-SPAN, 4/17/13]
Congressman Louie Gohmert Said Boston Bombings Should Force Advocates to Reconsider Immigration Reform.
In April 2013, Gohmert appeared on C-SPAN's Washington Journal and said: "Finally the Israeli people said this is enough. They built, over 70 percent of it is a fence and the rest is a wall to prevent snipers from knocking off their kids. They finally stopped the domestic violence from people that wanted to destroy them. I am concerned we need to do that as well." [Dallas Observer, 4/17/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Gohmert voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Louie Gohmert Said Al Quaeda Operatives Are Infiltrating Border Through Mexico by “Act[ing] Hispanic.” In April 2013, Gohmert appeared on C-SPAN's Washington Journal and said: “We know Al Qaeda has camps over with the drug cartels on the other side of the Mexican border. We know that people are now being trained to come in and act like Hispanics when they are radical Islamists.” [C-SPAN, 4/17/13]
Congressman Louie Gohmert Said Boston Bombings Should Force Advocates to Reconsider Immigration Reform.
In April 2013, Gohmert appeared on C-SPAN's Washington Journal and said: "Finally the Israeli people said this is enough. They built, over 70 percent of it is a fence and the rest is a wall to prevent snipers from knocking off their kids. They finally stopped the domestic violence from people that wanted to destroy them. I am concerned we need to do that as well." [Dallas Observer, 4/17/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Gohmert voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Michael Grimm (NY-11)
Grimm Opposed Senate Bill and Needed to See House Bill Before He Will Decide How to Vote. Grimm’s spokeswoman Carol Danko said that the Congressman opposes the Senate bill “because it doesn't contain strong enough enforceable triggers.” She continued, “Since the House seems likely to bring up its own bill, he will have to see it first before he can make a decision on how he will vote.” [WMRA, 7/10/13]
New York Observer Editorial Said Grimm Should Support Senate Immigration Bill and Be Working to Get It Passed. “New York, the historic gateway to a new world and a new life for tens of millions of immigrants, has an obligation to stand behind the Senate bill. Two downstate Republicans, Peter King of Nassau County and Michael Grimm of Staten Island, represent a region that has grown and prospered thanks to the hard work and sacrifice of generations of immigrants. Not only should they support the Senate bill, they should be working the back rooms and twisting arms to help line up votes in its favor.” [New York Observer, editorial, 7/9/13]
Grimm Complained That The Senate Immigration Bill Lacked “Triggers” Even Though Republican Senator Says The Bill “Contains Tangible, Concrete Triggers.” “‘There’s no triggers,’ Grimm complained of the Senate immigration bill.” However, Republican Senator Bob Corker, who successfully amended the bill said that it “contains tangible, concrete triggers.” [National Review, 6/27/13; Office of Bob Corker, 6/27/13]
Grimm Said Congress was Close to Finalizing Immigration Bill That “Has a Lot of Points That Will Serve Our County Well.” “For the first time in decades, Congress is close to finalizing an immigration bill that -- from what I can see so far -- has a lot of points that will serve our county well. This comprehensive package will finally close our borders, strengthen E-Verify so that we don't have illegal workers, and fix our broken visa system so that we can track those overstaying their visits…With my House colleagues working diligently on this comprehensive solution through the appropriate committees of jurisdiction, I felt it would only undermine their efforts to use an appropriations bill for immigration reform,” Grimm said of his decision to vote against the amendment introduced by Representative Steve King that would resume the deportation of undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children. [Staten Island Advance, 6/10/13]
2012: Grimm Supported “Comprehensive” Immigration Reform Bill. “I just think maybe when it’s not an election year next year we’ll be able to get this done and I’m hoping we’ll be able to address the overall immigration problem so it won’t be an issue [again]… would like to think there is going to be a comprehensive bill being passed,” said Grimm. [NY Law School Speech Transcript, 9/24/2012]
Grimm: DREAM Act would be the “Beginning of Amnesty” for Illegal Immigrants. In 2010, Grimm said that the DREAM Act would be the “beginning of amnesty” for undocumented immigrants. [Staten Island Advance, 10/27/10]
Grimm: DREAM Act is the “Band-Aid Solution.” In 2012, Grimm called the DREAM Act a “band-aid solution.” [Staten Island Advance, 1/09/12]
Grimm Supported Building Fence Along Mexican Border. In 2010, the Staten Island Advance reported that Grimm supported building a fence along the Mexican border. [Staten Island Advance, 10/27/10]
Grimm: GOP Needs to Rethink Immigration Policy Approach. In 2012, Grimm said that the GOP had to rethink its immigration policy approach. “We completely missed the boat on that…We need to message better.” [Staten Island Advance, 11/25/12]
Grimm: DREAM Act Hurt Immigration Reform Prospects. In 2012, Grimm opposed the DREAM Act that created a pathway to citizenship for children brought to the U.S. by their parents and said the DREAM Act took “the idea of really reforming immigration off the table.” [Staten Island Advance, 10/25/12]
Grimm Opposed Senate Bill and Needed to See House Bill Before He Will Decide How to Vote. Grimm’s spokeswoman Carol Danko said that the Congressman opposes the Senate bill “because it doesn't contain strong enough enforceable triggers.” She continued, “Since the House seems likely to bring up its own bill, he will have to see it first before he can make a decision on how he will vote.” [WMRA, 7/10/13]
New York Observer Editorial Said Grimm Should Support Senate Immigration Bill and Be Working to Get It Passed. “New York, the historic gateway to a new world and a new life for tens of millions of immigrants, has an obligation to stand behind the Senate bill. Two downstate Republicans, Peter King of Nassau County and Michael Grimm of Staten Island, represent a region that has grown and prospered thanks to the hard work and sacrifice of generations of immigrants. Not only should they support the Senate bill, they should be working the back rooms and twisting arms to help line up votes in its favor.” [New York Observer, editorial, 7/9/13]
Grimm Complained That The Senate Immigration Bill Lacked “Triggers” Even Though Republican Senator Says The Bill “Contains Tangible, Concrete Triggers.” “‘There’s no triggers,’ Grimm complained of the Senate immigration bill.” However, Republican Senator Bob Corker, who successfully amended the bill said that it “contains tangible, concrete triggers.” [National Review, 6/27/13; Office of Bob Corker, 6/27/13]
Grimm Said Congress was Close to Finalizing Immigration Bill That “Has a Lot of Points That Will Serve Our County Well.” “For the first time in decades, Congress is close to finalizing an immigration bill that -- from what I can see so far -- has a lot of points that will serve our county well. This comprehensive package will finally close our borders, strengthen E-Verify so that we don't have illegal workers, and fix our broken visa system so that we can track those overstaying their visits…With my House colleagues working diligently on this comprehensive solution through the appropriate committees of jurisdiction, I felt it would only undermine their efforts to use an appropriations bill for immigration reform,” Grimm said of his decision to vote against the amendment introduced by Representative Steve King that would resume the deportation of undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children. [Staten Island Advance, 6/10/13]
2012: Grimm Supported “Comprehensive” Immigration Reform Bill. “I just think maybe when it’s not an election year next year we’ll be able to get this done and I’m hoping we’ll be able to address the overall immigration problem so it won’t be an issue [again]… would like to think there is going to be a comprehensive bill being passed,” said Grimm. [NY Law School Speech Transcript, 9/24/2012]
Grimm: DREAM Act would be the “Beginning of Amnesty” for Illegal Immigrants. In 2010, Grimm said that the DREAM Act would be the “beginning of amnesty” for undocumented immigrants. [Staten Island Advance, 10/27/10]
Grimm: DREAM Act is the “Band-Aid Solution.” In 2012, Grimm called the DREAM Act a “band-aid solution.” [Staten Island Advance, 1/09/12]
Grimm Supported Building Fence Along Mexican Border. In 2010, the Staten Island Advance reported that Grimm supported building a fence along the Mexican border. [Staten Island Advance, 10/27/10]
Grimm: GOP Needs to Rethink Immigration Policy Approach. In 2012, Grimm said that the GOP had to rethink its immigration policy approach. “We completely missed the boat on that…We need to message better.” [Staten Island Advance, 11/25/12]
Grimm: DREAM Act Hurt Immigration Reform Prospects. In 2012, Grimm opposed the DREAM Act that created a pathway to citizenship for children brought to the U.S. by their parents and said the DREAM Act took “the idea of really reforming immigration off the table.” [Staten Island Advance, 10/25/12]
Andy Harris (MD-01)
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Harris voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Harris Supported Changing Constitution to Change Immigration Law. In February 2011, Numbers USA reported that Harris supported the Birthright Citizenship Bill, which would require one parent of a newborn child to be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States in order for that child to automatically be granted citizenship. [NumbersUSA, 2/16/11]
Harris Opposed Dream Act, Discounted Tuition To Undocumented Immigrants. Harris’ campaign website said, “In the Maryland Senate, I voted against the Dream Act, a policy that gives discounted and taxpayer subsidized in-state college tuition rates to students who are not here legally. I will also oppose this measure that has been talked about in Washington DC. Legal residents of Maryland have a hard time affording college in these tough economic times. I do not support giving tuition discounts to students who are not legally present in Maryland or the United States.” [Harris for Congress, accessed 5/7/13]
Harris: “We Must Enforce Their Return Home When Their Visas Expire.” In a 2010 Voter’s Guide in the Baltimore Sun, Harris said, “I recognize the need for legal, temporary workers who don't displace American workers, but we must enforce their return home when their visas expire. Illegal immigration is illegal. Everyone in this country must obey the laws and face consequences if they don't.” [Baltimore Sun, 10/31/10]
Harris Said Obama did “Unconstitutional End Run Around Our Immigration Law.” In 2011, Rep. Harris told the Baltimore Sun: “Even more worrisome is President Obama's picking and choosing from among the acts of Congress the administration and Attorney General Eric Holder will enforce . . . If the president doesn't like the current law, he should have come back early from his vacation in the tropics and worked with Congress to change it, not doing yet another unconstitutional end run around our immigration law.” [Baltimore Sun, 11/19/11]
Harris: “We're Not Going to Grant Blanket Citizenship” To Immigrants. According to the Baltimore Sun: “Harris, who will soon be the only Republican in Maryland's congressional delegation, said the GOP is ready to work with Democrats on ‘a common-sense reform that recognizes we're probably never going to deport 12 million people but, on the other hand, we're not going to grant blanket citizenship to those 12 million people, either.’” [Baltimore Sun, 11/18/12]
Harris Called "Illegal Immigration... an Insult.” Harris’ campaign website said, “While legal immigration helps improve America, illegal immigration is causing widespread issues and an insult to Americans who waited in line and came here legally.” [Harris for Congress, accessed 5/7/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Harris voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Harris Supported Changing Constitution to Change Immigration Law. In February 2011, Numbers USA reported that Harris supported the Birthright Citizenship Bill, which would require one parent of a newborn child to be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States in order for that child to automatically be granted citizenship. [NumbersUSA, 2/16/11]
Harris Opposed Dream Act, Discounted Tuition To Undocumented Immigrants. Harris’ campaign website said, “In the Maryland Senate, I voted against the Dream Act, a policy that gives discounted and taxpayer subsidized in-state college tuition rates to students who are not here legally. I will also oppose this measure that has been talked about in Washington DC. Legal residents of Maryland have a hard time affording college in these tough economic times. I do not support giving tuition discounts to students who are not legally present in Maryland or the United States.” [Harris for Congress, accessed 5/7/13]
Harris: “We Must Enforce Their Return Home When Their Visas Expire.” In a 2010 Voter’s Guide in the Baltimore Sun, Harris said, “I recognize the need for legal, temporary workers who don't displace American workers, but we must enforce their return home when their visas expire. Illegal immigration is illegal. Everyone in this country must obey the laws and face consequences if they don't.” [Baltimore Sun, 10/31/10]
Harris Said Obama did “Unconstitutional End Run Around Our Immigration Law.” In 2011, Rep. Harris told the Baltimore Sun: “Even more worrisome is President Obama's picking and choosing from among the acts of Congress the administration and Attorney General Eric Holder will enforce . . . If the president doesn't like the current law, he should have come back early from his vacation in the tropics and worked with Congress to change it, not doing yet another unconstitutional end run around our immigration law.” [Baltimore Sun, 11/19/11]
Harris: “We're Not Going to Grant Blanket Citizenship” To Immigrants. According to the Baltimore Sun: “Harris, who will soon be the only Republican in Maryland's congressional delegation, said the GOP is ready to work with Democrats on ‘a common-sense reform that recognizes we're probably never going to deport 12 million people but, on the other hand, we're not going to grant blanket citizenship to those 12 million people, either.’” [Baltimore Sun, 11/18/12]
Harris Called "Illegal Immigration... an Insult.” Harris’ campaign website said, “While legal immigration helps improve America, illegal immigration is causing widespread issues and an insult to Americans who waited in line and came here legally.” [Harris for Congress, accessed 5/7/13]
Joe Heck (NV-03)
Heck: “I don’t Believe in Amnesty.” In February 2013, Heck said “I don’t believe in amnesty. I don’t think you can just wipe the slate clean and everyone is going to get a green card and get put on a pathway to citizenship.” [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 2/19/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Heck voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Opposed Pathway to Citizenship for Adult Undocumented Immigrants. In 2013, Heck’s office said he opposed a pathway to citizenship for adult undocumented immigrants. [National Journal, 1/29/13]
Heck: “If You’re Going to Be a Citizen, You should Be Born to at Least One Parent That is a U.S. Citizen.” In 2012, when asked if he supported birthright citizenship, Heck said “My personal opinion is that if you’re going to be a U.S. citizen, you should be born to at least one parent that is a U.S. citizen. I do believe that.” [YouTube, uploaded 2/23/12]
Said He Would Overhaul the 14th Amendment that Allowed Birthright Citizenship. In 2012, Heck said he “wanted to overhaul the 14th Amendment so that some children of illegal immigrants will no longer be granted automatic citizenship at birth.” [Real Clear Politics, 4/07/12]
Heck: “I Have Concerns with the DREAM Act.” In 2012, when asked if he supported the DREAM Act that would give legal status for young people born to undocumented immigrants, Heck said “I have concerns with the DREAM Act. I think there are provisions in the DREAM Act that say if you go to school for two years you can become a citizen, there is no requirement to get a degree, certification….” [YouTube, uploaded 2/23/12]
Introduced Bill to Block Illegal Immigrants from Receiving Scholarships, College Loans and In-State Tuition in Nevada. In 2007, as State Senator, Heck introduced a bill to block illegal immigrants from receiving Millennium Scholarships, college loans and in-state tuition. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 4/10/07; SB 415, 3/19/07]
Endorsed by Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio. Joe Heck was endorsed by controversial Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 10/20/12]
Sponsored Bill Making English Official Language in Nevada. In 2007, Heck sponsored and voted for a bill to make English the official language of Nevada. The bill required all official proceedings of the State be conducted in English and required all official records of the State to be prepared, stored and made available in English. [SB 325, Senate Journal page 2830, 4/24/07; Las Vegas Review-Journal, 4/25/07]
Supported Making E-Verify System Mandatory. In 2010, Heck supported making the E-Verify system mandatory for all employers and would work to enact tougher federal penalties for corporations that knowingly hire individuals without determining the eligibility of that employee to legally work in the United States. [Nevada News & Views, 5/04/10]
Heck: “I am Open to Considering Proposals That Address Earned Citizenship.” In 2013, Heck said “As I have stated all along, while I am opposed to blanked amnesty, I am open to considering proposals that address earned citizenship.” [Office of Joe Heck, 6/14/13]
Heck: “I don’t Believe in Amnesty.” In February 2013, Heck said “I don’t believe in amnesty. I don’t think you can just wipe the slate clean and everyone is going to get a green card and get put on a pathway to citizenship.” [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 2/19/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Heck voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Opposed Pathway to Citizenship for Adult Undocumented Immigrants. In 2013, Heck’s office said he opposed a pathway to citizenship for adult undocumented immigrants. [National Journal, 1/29/13]
Heck: “If You’re Going to Be a Citizen, You should Be Born to at Least One Parent That is a U.S. Citizen.” In 2012, when asked if he supported birthright citizenship, Heck said “My personal opinion is that if you’re going to be a U.S. citizen, you should be born to at least one parent that is a U.S. citizen. I do believe that.” [YouTube, uploaded 2/23/12]
Said He Would Overhaul the 14th Amendment that Allowed Birthright Citizenship. In 2012, Heck said he “wanted to overhaul the 14th Amendment so that some children of illegal immigrants will no longer be granted automatic citizenship at birth.” [Real Clear Politics, 4/07/12]
Heck: “I Have Concerns with the DREAM Act.” In 2012, when asked if he supported the DREAM Act that would give legal status for young people born to undocumented immigrants, Heck said “I have concerns with the DREAM Act. I think there are provisions in the DREAM Act that say if you go to school for two years you can become a citizen, there is no requirement to get a degree, certification….” [YouTube, uploaded 2/23/12]
Introduced Bill to Block Illegal Immigrants from Receiving Scholarships, College Loans and In-State Tuition in Nevada. In 2007, as State Senator, Heck introduced a bill to block illegal immigrants from receiving Millennium Scholarships, college loans and in-state tuition. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 4/10/07; SB 415, 3/19/07]
Endorsed by Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio. Joe Heck was endorsed by controversial Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 10/20/12]
Sponsored Bill Making English Official Language in Nevada. In 2007, Heck sponsored and voted for a bill to make English the official language of Nevada. The bill required all official proceedings of the State be conducted in English and required all official records of the State to be prepared, stored and made available in English. [SB 325, Senate Journal page 2830, 4/24/07; Las Vegas Review-Journal, 4/25/07]
Supported Making E-Verify System Mandatory. In 2010, Heck supported making the E-Verify system mandatory for all employers and would work to enact tougher federal penalties for corporations that knowingly hire individuals without determining the eligibility of that employee to legally work in the United States. [Nevada News & Views, 5/04/10]
Heck: “I am Open to Considering Proposals That Address Earned Citizenship.” In 2013, Heck said “As I have stated all along, while I am opposed to blanked amnesty, I am open to considering proposals that address earned citizenship.” [Office of Joe Heck, 6/14/13]
Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03)
Herrera Buetler: “I Do Not Support Amnesty for Illegal Immigrants.” In 2013, Herrera-Beutler says on her congressional website: “I do not support amnesty for illegal immigrants, and I don’t believe we can seriously discuss what to do with the people already here illegally until we’ve stemmed the flow of people crossing into our country illegally every day. It is our responsibility to protect social service safety nets and jobs for legal, taxpaying citizens and residents.” [Office of Jaime Herrera Beutler, accessed 2/01/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congresswoman Herrera Beutler voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Supports Making English the Official Language of the U.S. According to her congressional website, Herrera Beutler, supports "mak[ing] English the official language of the United States and learning English a necessary requirement for U.S. citizenship.” [Office of Jaime Herrera Beutler, accessed 2/01/13]
Supports “E-Verify” To Keep Employers Accountable For Who They Hire. According to her congressional website, Herrera Beutler supports electronic verification or “e-verify” to ensure that those applying for jobs are legally able and to keep employers accountable for who they hire. [Office of Jaime Herrera Beutler, accessed 2/01/13]
Declined to Say if She would Vote to End U.S. Birthright Citizenship. In 2011, Herrera Beutler declined to say how she would vote on a constitutional amendment to end the right to U.S. citizenship now held by everybody born in the United States. [Columbian, 2/06/11]
Herrera Buetler: “I Do Not Support Amnesty for Illegal Immigrants.” In 2013, Herrera-Beutler says on her congressional website: “I do not support amnesty for illegal immigrants, and I don’t believe we can seriously discuss what to do with the people already here illegally until we’ve stemmed the flow of people crossing into our country illegally every day. It is our responsibility to protect social service safety nets and jobs for legal, taxpaying citizens and residents.” [Office of Jaime Herrera Beutler, accessed 2/01/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congresswoman Herrera Beutler voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Supports Making English the Official Language of the U.S. According to her congressional website, Herrera Beutler, supports "mak[ing] English the official language of the United States and learning English a necessary requirement for U.S. citizenship.” [Office of Jaime Herrera Beutler, accessed 2/01/13]
Supports “E-Verify” To Keep Employers Accountable For Who They Hire. According to her congressional website, Herrera Beutler supports electronic verification or “e-verify” to ensure that those applying for jobs are legally able and to keep employers accountable for who they hire. [Office of Jaime Herrera Beutler, accessed 2/01/13]
Declined to Say if She would Vote to End U.S. Birthright Citizenship. In 2011, Herrera Beutler declined to say how she would vote on a constitutional amendment to end the right to U.S. citizenship now held by everybody born in the United States. [Columbian, 2/06/11]
Tim Huelskamp (KS-01)
Congressman Tim Huelskamp Pledged Not to Support Amnesty Before Sealing the Border, Called it Republican Hopes to Appeal to Hispanic Voters “Discouraging.” “If you’re going to talk about giving a pathway to citizenship before you seal the border. They made a mistake in ’86; I’m not going to repeat that. That’s not going to go through the House. What is interesting and very distracting and very discouraging is, Steve, after the election, the general discussion from Republicans in Washington was, we’ve got to do everything we can to win votes from the so-called ‘Hispanic voter.’” [Think Progress, 4/10/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Huelskamp voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Tim Huelskamp Pledged Not to Support Amnesty Before Sealing the Border, Called it Republican Hopes to Appeal to Hispanic Voters “Discouraging.” “If you’re going to talk about giving a pathway to citizenship before you seal the border. They made a mistake in ’86; I’m not going to repeat that. That’s not going to go through the House. What is interesting and very distracting and very discouraging is, Steve, after the election, the general discussion from Republicans in Washington was, we’ve got to do everything we can to win votes from the so-called ‘Hispanic voter.’” [Think Progress, 4/10/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Huelskamp voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Darrell Issa (CA-49)
Issa: Arizona Should Have Been Greeted With Thanks and Praise for Immigration Law. In 2010, in an interview on CSPAN, Issa said “When Arizona decided to take advantage of existing federal law that allows their people to sift through you will people apprehended for some other reason and then offer to turn them over to law enforcement on a federal level, they should have been greeted with a welcoming thank you very much, that’s why this program exists.” [C-SPAN, uploaded 7/11/10]
Criticized President Obama for Challenging the Arizona Immigration Law. In 2010, Issa criticized President Obama for challenging the Arizona immigration law saying: “For President Obama to stand in the way of a state which has taken action to stand up for its citizens against the daily threat of violence and fear is disgraceful and a betrayal of his Constitutional obligation to protect our citizens.” [New York Times, 7/06/10]
Denounced Federal Court Ruling Blocking Enforcement of Arizona Law. In 2010, Issa called the decision “absurd.” “The federal government has a right and a responsibility to enforce existing laws. But when they fail to meet that responsibility, we should not stand in the way of the states that take action to respond to the very threat of border violence, drug cartels and human smuggling,” Issa said. [Press Enterprise, 7/29/10]
Issa: “We’re Not Going to do a Round of Amnesty.” In 2010, in an interview when asked about Republicans working on immigration reform, Issa said “we have only one red line, we’re not going to do a round of amnesty.” [C-SPAN, uploaded 7/11/10]
Issa: Republican Position is No Pathway to Citizenship. In 2010, Issa said “Transition into a guest worker program that does not have a permanent citizenship or a pathway to citizenship in it, that’s the Republican position, ninety-seven percent.” [C-SPAN, uploaded 7/11/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Issa voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Issa: Arizona Should Have Been Greeted With Thanks and Praise for Immigration Law. In 2010, in an interview on CSPAN, Issa said “When Arizona decided to take advantage of existing federal law that allows their people to sift through you will people apprehended for some other reason and then offer to turn them over to law enforcement on a federal level, they should have been greeted with a welcoming thank you very much, that’s why this program exists.” [C-SPAN, uploaded 7/11/10]
Criticized President Obama for Challenging the Arizona Immigration Law. In 2010, Issa criticized President Obama for challenging the Arizona immigration law saying: “For President Obama to stand in the way of a state which has taken action to stand up for its citizens against the daily threat of violence and fear is disgraceful and a betrayal of his Constitutional obligation to protect our citizens.” [New York Times, 7/06/10]
Denounced Federal Court Ruling Blocking Enforcement of Arizona Law. In 2010, Issa called the decision “absurd.” “The federal government has a right and a responsibility to enforce existing laws. But when they fail to meet that responsibility, we should not stand in the way of the states that take action to respond to the very threat of border violence, drug cartels and human smuggling,” Issa said. [Press Enterprise, 7/29/10]
Issa: “We’re Not Going to do a Round of Amnesty.” In 2010, in an interview when asked about Republicans working on immigration reform, Issa said “we have only one red line, we’re not going to do a round of amnesty.” [C-SPAN, uploaded 7/11/10]
Issa: Republican Position is No Pathway to Citizenship. In 2010, Issa said “Transition into a guest worker program that does not have a permanent citizenship or a pathway to citizenship in it, that’s the Republican position, ninety-seven percent.” [C-SPAN, uploaded 7/11/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Issa voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Bill Johnson (OH-06)
Johnson Did Not Support Senate’s Immigration Reform Bill, Claiming “Border Security Must Come First, and No Amnesty.” “Several have asked about Immigration Reform: The Senate passed a bill today that I do NOT support. Border security must come first, and no amnesty,” Johnson said in a Facebook post. [Bill Johnson Facebook Page, 6/27/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Johnson voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Johnson Did Not Support Senate’s Immigration Reform Bill, Claiming “Border Security Must Come First, and No Amnesty.” “Several have asked about Immigration Reform: The Senate passed a bill today that I do NOT support. Border security must come first, and no amnesty,” Johnson said in a Facebook post. [Bill Johnson Facebook Page, 6/27/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Johnson voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Steve King (IA-04)
King: For Every High School Valedictorian That's an Undocumented Immigrant, There's Another 100 Immigrants “Hauling 75 Pounds of Marijuana Across the Desert.” “Iowa conservative Republican Congressman Steve King said in an interview with Newsmax that for every valedictorian DREAMer who has been brought to this country by his or her family, '…there’s another 100 out there who, they weigh 130 pounds and they’ve got calves the size of cantaloupes because they’re hauling 75 pounds of marijuana across the desert. Those people would be legalized with the same act.'” [NBC Latino, 7/23/13]
King Compared Immigrants to “Dogs.” In 2013, Salon reported that King “compared immigrants to dogs at a town hall meeting yesterday, telling constituents that the U.S. should pick only the best immigrants the way one chooses the ‘pick of the litter.’” “You want a good bird dog? You want one that’s going to be aggressive? Pick the one that’s the friskiest … not the one that’s over there sleeping in the corner… You get the pick of the litter and you got yourself a pretty good bird dog. Well, we’ve got the pick of every donor civilization on the planet… We’ve got the vigor from the planet to come to America,” said King. [Salon, 5/22/12]
Suggested Caution on Immigration Reform Because of Boston Bombings. In 2013, the National Review reported that King said Congress should be cautious about rushing immigration reform because of reports that the possible suspects in the Boston marathon bombing may be a “foreign nation.” King said: “Some of the speculation that has come out is that yes, it was a foreign national and, speculating here, that it was potentially a person on a student visa… If that’s the case, then we need to take a look at the big picture.” [National Review, 4/16/13]
King: For Every High School Valedictorian That's an Undocumented Immigrant, There's Another 100 Immigrants “Hauling 75 Pounds of Marijuana Across the Desert.” “Iowa conservative Republican Congressman Steve King said in an interview with Newsmax that for every valedictorian DREAMer who has been brought to this country by his or her family, '…there’s another 100 out there who, they weigh 130 pounds and they’ve got calves the size of cantaloupes because they’re hauling 75 pounds of marijuana across the desert. Those people would be legalized with the same act.'” [NBC Latino, 7/23/13]
King Compared Immigrants to “Dogs.” In 2013, Salon reported that King “compared immigrants to dogs at a town hall meeting yesterday, telling constituents that the U.S. should pick only the best immigrants the way one chooses the ‘pick of the litter.’” “You want a good bird dog? You want one that’s going to be aggressive? Pick the one that’s the friskiest … not the one that’s over there sleeping in the corner… You get the pick of the litter and you got yourself a pretty good bird dog. Well, we’ve got the pick of every donor civilization on the planet… We’ve got the vigor from the planet to come to America,” said King. [Salon, 5/22/12]
Suggested Caution on Immigration Reform Because of Boston Bombings. In 2013, the National Review reported that King said Congress should be cautious about rushing immigration reform because of reports that the possible suspects in the Boston marathon bombing may be a “foreign nation.” King said: “Some of the speculation that has come out is that yes, it was a foreign national and, speculating here, that it was potentially a person on a student visa… If that’s the case, then we need to take a look at the big picture.” [National Review, 4/16/13]
- …Said National Security Should Be Number One Focus. In 2013, National Review reported that King said on immigration, “We need to be ever vigilant…We need to go far deeper into our border crossings. . . . We need to take a look at the visa-waiver program and wonder what we’re doing. If we can’t background-check people that are coming from Saudi Arabia, how do we think we are going to background check the 11 to 20 million people that are here from who knows where?” [National Review, 4/16/13]
Raul Labrador (ID-01)
Labrador: “Amnesty and Pathway to Citizenship for Illegal Immigrants Are Out of the Question.” In 2010, Labrador wrote a letter to the Idaho Statesman. “My position on illegal immigration has always been consistent and could not be clearer: First and foremost, amnesty and a pathway to citizenship for illegal aliens are out of the question,” Labrador wrote. [Idaho Statesman, Labrador LTE, 10/06/10]
Said He was Not in Favor of Comprehensive Immigration Reform. In 2007, Labrador said he was not in favor of comprehensive immigration reform because even compromise solutions left people on both sides unhappy. Instead, he said U.S. should just enforce existing law and make some changes. [Idaho Business Review, 7/23/07]
Labrador: Illegal Immigrants Should Go Back to Their Country. In 2010, in an interview with Jorge Ramos on Univision’s “Al Punto,” Labrador said the 11 million undocumented immigrants should go back to their country. “I think they all have to go back to their country…If we give them incentives so that they know that if they return to their country, we will give them the opportunity to legalize and to apply to come back as workers. I think the majority of those individuals would be willing to do that,” said Labrador. [Idaho Statesman, 10/04/10]
Labrador: "Undocumented Immigrants Must Return to Their Country.” In 2013, on Labrador’s congressional website, Labrador says “In order for us to have real immigration reform, our top priority needs to be to first secure our nation’s borders and start enforcing the immigration laws already enacted. To do so we must give our law enforcement officials the resources they need to enforce the laws on the books and secure our borders. I also believe that undocumented immigrants must return to their country of origin and then reapply to legally come to the United. States.” [Labrador.house.gov, accessed 4/18/13]
Labrador: “I Do Not Support Amnesty.” In 2010, Labrador said “I do not support amnesty. I would be willing to offer illegals an incentive who have a desire to become legal productive members of our society, an incentive to come forward: Should they do so willing and in some reasonable time frame, we would give them consideration by the State Department to return legally.” [Lewiston Morning Tribune, 5/05/10]
Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio Endorsed Labrador in 2010. In 2010, Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio endorsed Raul Labrador for Idaho’s 1st Congressional District. Arpaio expressed confidence that Labrador would “help America solve the problem of illegal immigration.” [Examiner, 10/05/10]
Sponsored Bill to Revoke Owner’s Business License if They Hired an Illegal Immigrant. In 2010, as a state representative, Labrador sponsored legislation that would suspend and potentially revoke an owner’s business license if that business was found to have hired an illegal immigrant. Under the legislation, illegal immigrants would also be charged with a misdemeanor if they provided false information to get a job. [Idaho Falls Post Register, 2/16/10]
Voted to Make English the Official Language of Idaho. In 2007, as a state legislator, Labrador voted to make English, Idaho’s official language. [Idaho Statesman, 3/20/07]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Labrador voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Labrador: “Amnesty and Pathway to Citizenship for Illegal Immigrants Are Out of the Question.” In 2010, Labrador wrote a letter to the Idaho Statesman. “My position on illegal immigration has always been consistent and could not be clearer: First and foremost, amnesty and a pathway to citizenship for illegal aliens are out of the question,” Labrador wrote. [Idaho Statesman, Labrador LTE, 10/06/10]
Said He was Not in Favor of Comprehensive Immigration Reform. In 2007, Labrador said he was not in favor of comprehensive immigration reform because even compromise solutions left people on both sides unhappy. Instead, he said U.S. should just enforce existing law and make some changes. [Idaho Business Review, 7/23/07]
Labrador: Illegal Immigrants Should Go Back to Their Country. In 2010, in an interview with Jorge Ramos on Univision’s “Al Punto,” Labrador said the 11 million undocumented immigrants should go back to their country. “I think they all have to go back to their country…If we give them incentives so that they know that if they return to their country, we will give them the opportunity to legalize and to apply to come back as workers. I think the majority of those individuals would be willing to do that,” said Labrador. [Idaho Statesman, 10/04/10]
Labrador: "Undocumented Immigrants Must Return to Their Country.” In 2013, on Labrador’s congressional website, Labrador says “In order for us to have real immigration reform, our top priority needs to be to first secure our nation’s borders and start enforcing the immigration laws already enacted. To do so we must give our law enforcement officials the resources they need to enforce the laws on the books and secure our borders. I also believe that undocumented immigrants must return to their country of origin and then reapply to legally come to the United. States.” [Labrador.house.gov, accessed 4/18/13]
Labrador: “I Do Not Support Amnesty.” In 2010, Labrador said “I do not support amnesty. I would be willing to offer illegals an incentive who have a desire to become legal productive members of our society, an incentive to come forward: Should they do so willing and in some reasonable time frame, we would give them consideration by the State Department to return legally.” [Lewiston Morning Tribune, 5/05/10]
Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio Endorsed Labrador in 2010. In 2010, Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio endorsed Raul Labrador for Idaho’s 1st Congressional District. Arpaio expressed confidence that Labrador would “help America solve the problem of illegal immigration.” [Examiner, 10/05/10]
Sponsored Bill to Revoke Owner’s Business License if They Hired an Illegal Immigrant. In 2010, as a state representative, Labrador sponsored legislation that would suspend and potentially revoke an owner’s business license if that business was found to have hired an illegal immigrant. Under the legislation, illegal immigrants would also be charged with a misdemeanor if they provided false information to get a job. [Idaho Falls Post Register, 2/16/10]
Voted to Make English the Official Language of Idaho. In 2007, as a state legislator, Labrador voted to make English, Idaho’s official language. [Idaho Statesman, 3/20/07]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Labrador voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Frank LoBiondo (NJ-02)
LoBiondo Said Undocumented People Represent an “Enormous Problem.” “We have an enormous problem with people who are undocumented who have broken the law, in some cases under some very tragic circumstances. I hope we can somehow solve this problem that's been an issue for so many years,” LoBiondo said. [South Jersey Times, 2/3/13]
LoBiondo Described Immigration Reform as a “Huge Political Minefield.” “This is a huge political minefield, and almost anything could blow up the process along the way,” LoBiondo said of immigration reform. [South Jersey Times, 2/3/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman LoBiondo voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
LoBiondo Said Undocumented People Represent an “Enormous Problem.” “We have an enormous problem with people who are undocumented who have broken the law, in some cases under some very tragic circumstances. I hope we can somehow solve this problem that's been an issue for so many years,” LoBiondo said. [South Jersey Times, 2/3/13]
LoBiondo Described Immigration Reform as a “Huge Political Minefield.” “This is a huge political minefield, and almost anything could blow up the process along the way,” LoBiondo said of immigration reform. [South Jersey Times, 2/3/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman LoBiondo voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Buck McKeon (CA-25)
McKeon: “I Do Not Support Amnesty For Those That Entered the Country Illegally.” In 2013, on his congressional website, McKeon wrote, “First and foremost, I do not support amnesty for those that entered the country illegally.” [Office of Buck McKeon, accessed 4/19/13]
McKeon: “Individuals Who Came Here Illegally Should Be Punished.” In 2013, on his congressional website, McKeon wrote, “I strongly believe that individuals who came here illegally should be punished to the fullest extent of the law, not rewarded for their actions.” [Office of Buck McKeon, accessed 4/19/13]
McKeon: “We Need to Examine the “Anchor Baby” Policy.” In 2013, on his congressional website, McKeon wrote, “We need to examine the ‘anchor baby’ policy and must fully comprehend the message we are sending to individuals considering entering the country illegally.” [Office of Buck McKeon, accessed 4/19/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman McKeon voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
McKeon: “We Should Quit Rewarding Those Who Enter Our Country Illegally.” In 1995, McKeon opposed birthright citizenship saying: “We should quit rewarding those who enter our country illegally with citizenship for their children,” said McKeon. [Los Angeles Times, 6/11/95]
Voted to Make Undocumented Immigration a Felony. In 2005, McKeon voted for the House immigration bill that would create criminal penalties for illegal immigration including making living in the country illegally a felony and a crime to assist illegal immigrants. [HR 4437, Vote # 661, 12/16/05; CQ Weekly, 12/23/05]
Voted Against the DREAM Act. In 2010, McKeon voted against the DREAM Act, which would provide a path to legal residency for hundreds of thousands of young, undocumented immigrants first brought to the United States illegally by their parents. [HR 5281, Vote #625, 12/08/10]
Co-Sponsored Bill to Block Undocumented Immigrant Students to Obtain In-State Tuition. In 2010, McKeon co-sponsored legislation that aimed at ending in-state tuition fees for illegal immigrants. [HR 4548, 1/27/10]
Supported Proposal to Allow States to Deny Public Schooling to Children of Undocumented Immigrants. In 1996, McKeon supported the amendment to an immigration bill put forth by Rep. Elton Gallegly that would give states the right to deny public schooling to illegal immigrant children. [Los Angeles Times, 4/12/96]
Co-Sponsored Bill to Abolish Birthright Citizenship for Children of Undocumented Immigrants. In 2010, McKeon co-sponsored the Birthright Citizenship Act that would abolish birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to illegal immigrant parents. [Office of Buck McKeon, accessed 4/19/13]
Voted for the Real ID Act of 2005 that Restricted Drivers Licenses to Undocumented Immigrants. In 2005, McKeon voted for the Real ID Act of 2005 that would require all states to obtain proof of legal status and verify all documents before issuing a driver’s license. [HR 418, Vote #31, 2/10/05]
Co-Sponsored Legislation to Make English the Official Language in the U.S. In 1995, McKeon co-sponsored the Language of Government Act that would declare English the country’s official language and cut off federal spending for anything that did not promote English. [Los Angeles Times, 9/08/95]
McKeon: “I Do Not Support Amnesty For Those That Entered the Country Illegally.” In 2013, on his congressional website, McKeon wrote, “First and foremost, I do not support amnesty for those that entered the country illegally.” [Office of Buck McKeon, accessed 4/19/13]
McKeon: “Individuals Who Came Here Illegally Should Be Punished.” In 2013, on his congressional website, McKeon wrote, “I strongly believe that individuals who came here illegally should be punished to the fullest extent of the law, not rewarded for their actions.” [Office of Buck McKeon, accessed 4/19/13]
McKeon: “We Need to Examine the “Anchor Baby” Policy.” In 2013, on his congressional website, McKeon wrote, “We need to examine the ‘anchor baby’ policy and must fully comprehend the message we are sending to individuals considering entering the country illegally.” [Office of Buck McKeon, accessed 4/19/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman McKeon voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
McKeon: “We Should Quit Rewarding Those Who Enter Our Country Illegally.” In 1995, McKeon opposed birthright citizenship saying: “We should quit rewarding those who enter our country illegally with citizenship for their children,” said McKeon. [Los Angeles Times, 6/11/95]
Voted to Make Undocumented Immigration a Felony. In 2005, McKeon voted for the House immigration bill that would create criminal penalties for illegal immigration including making living in the country illegally a felony and a crime to assist illegal immigrants. [HR 4437, Vote # 661, 12/16/05; CQ Weekly, 12/23/05]
Voted Against the DREAM Act. In 2010, McKeon voted against the DREAM Act, which would provide a path to legal residency for hundreds of thousands of young, undocumented immigrants first brought to the United States illegally by their parents. [HR 5281, Vote #625, 12/08/10]
Co-Sponsored Bill to Block Undocumented Immigrant Students to Obtain In-State Tuition. In 2010, McKeon co-sponsored legislation that aimed at ending in-state tuition fees for illegal immigrants. [HR 4548, 1/27/10]
Supported Proposal to Allow States to Deny Public Schooling to Children of Undocumented Immigrants. In 1996, McKeon supported the amendment to an immigration bill put forth by Rep. Elton Gallegly that would give states the right to deny public schooling to illegal immigrant children. [Los Angeles Times, 4/12/96]
Co-Sponsored Bill to Abolish Birthright Citizenship for Children of Undocumented Immigrants. In 2010, McKeon co-sponsored the Birthright Citizenship Act that would abolish birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to illegal immigrant parents. [Office of Buck McKeon, accessed 4/19/13]
Voted for the Real ID Act of 2005 that Restricted Drivers Licenses to Undocumented Immigrants. In 2005, McKeon voted for the Real ID Act of 2005 that would require all states to obtain proof of legal status and verify all documents before issuing a driver’s license. [HR 418, Vote #31, 2/10/05]
Co-Sponsored Legislation to Make English the Official Language in the U.S. In 1995, McKeon co-sponsored the Language of Government Act that would declare English the country’s official language and cut off federal spending for anything that did not promote English. [Los Angeles Times, 9/08/95]
Pat Meehan (PA-07)
Meehan Said Boston Bombings Reaffirms Importance of Securing Our Borders. Meehan said of the Boston Bombings, “I think the attacks last week were a sobering reminder that terrorists across the world continue to plot attacks against our citizens, and it reaffirms the importance of getting our borders under control.” [Intelligencer Journal, 4/25/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Meehan voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Meehan Said Boston Bombings Reaffirms Importance of Securing Our Borders. Meehan said of the Boston Bombings, “I think the attacks last week were a sobering reminder that terrorists across the world continue to plot attacks against our citizens, and it reaffirms the importance of getting our borders under control.” [Intelligencer Journal, 4/25/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Meehan voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Gary Miller (CA-31)
Miller Says He Understands DREAMers’ Plight Because He Moved from Arkansas to California as a Young Child. “California Republican Rep. Gary Miller has earned a reputation as an immigration hardliner, but when confronted by a group of young immigrants Friday at a public event in Rancho Cucamonga (which had a $12 entry fee), Miller told them he understands their plight because he, too, is an immigrant, of sorts, moving with his family from Arkansas to California as a young child..[..] “You know, I’ve talked to a lot of young people like [you],” Miller told the young activists, captured in footage taken by a Democratic tracker. “I mean, I understand the difficulty. Just like I was born in Arkansas. I came here when I was a year old.” [Washington Post, 8/27/13]
Referred to Children of Undocumented Immigrants as “Anchor Babies.” In January 2011, Miller said that he joined Steve King in introducing a bill to “end birthright citizenship for anchor babies.” [Miller Official Twitter, 1/07/11]
Called Democratic Party Discussion on Amnesty Legislation “Unconscionable.” In July 2010, Miller called the Democratic Party efforts to discuss amnesty legislation as “unconscionable.” “Rather than discuss amnesty legislation for those that have broken our nation’s immigration laws, I think the Judiciary Committee should use its time and resources to investigate this double standard,” Miller said. [San Bernardino County Sun, 7/14/10]
Miller: "Wrong to Award Citizenship." In December 2009, Miller said “It is simply wrong to award citizenship to those that have recklessly disregarded our nation’s immigration laws,” Miller said. [Orange County Register, 12/16/09]
Miller: Comprehensive Immigration Reform Means Amnesty. In July 2010 Miller criticized President Obama for not providing the money needed to fight crime along the border. He said, “They’re not dealing with the problem…He wants comprehensive immigration reform, which means amnesty.” [Orange County Register, 7/02/10]
Said He Would Vote Against Any Bill That Was Not Enforcement Only Measure. In 2006, Miller said he would vote against any immigration bill that was not an enforcement-only measure. [Orange County Register, 3/30/06]
Voted to Make Undocumented Immigration a Felony. In 2005, Miller voted for the House immigration bill that would create criminal penalties for undocumented immigration including making living in the country illegally a felony and a crime to assist illegal immigrants. [HR 4437, Vote # 661, 12/16/05, CQ Quarterly Weekly, 12/23/05]
Voted Against the DREAM Act. In 2010, Miller voted against the DREAM Act, which would provide a path to legal residency for hundreds of thousands of young, undocumented immigrants first brought to the United States illegally by their parents. [HR 5281, Vote #625, 12/08/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Miller voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Defended the Arizona Immigration Law. In December 2010, Miller defended Arizona’s immigration law, SB 1070, as simply reiterating federal law stating “that violating federal immigration law is a state crime as well” and that violators can be arrested by local law enforcement. [Washington Times, LTE, 12/09/10]
Said Republicans Needed to Support Arizona. In October 2010, Miller told a California rally featuring Sarah Palin that Republicans needed to “support Arizona,” referencing the immigration law. [Politico, 10/16/10]
Called Department of Justice Lawsuit Against Arizona’s Immigration Law “Baseless." In July 2010, Miller said the Department of Justice’s challenge to the Arizona immigration law is baseless…The Arizona law simply requires non-citizens to follow the federal law,” Miller said. [Orange County Register, 7/07/10]
Miller: End Birthright Citizenship for Illegal Immigrants. In April 2010, the San Bernardino County Sun wrote that Miller went on television to "renew his call for an end to birthright citizenship. The 14th Amendment to the Constitution automatically grants citizenship to any person born on American soil, regardless of the immigration status of the child's parents. Miller is carrying a bill to prevent children from becoming citizens at birth if both of their parents are illegal immigrants." Miller said, “Let’s just define the 14th Amendment to make it clear that if that child is born here in the United States, it’s not a citizen." [San Bernardino County Sun, 4/15/10]
Press Enterprise: Miller “National Leader on Anti-Illegal Immigration Measures.” In 2013, Press Enterprise referred to Miler as “a national leader on anti-illegal immigration measures. [Press-Enterprise, 4/05/13]
Opposed 2004 Proposed Immigration Reform. In 2004, Miller opposed Bush’s proposed immigration reform. “This proposal rewards law-breakers, is unfair to law-abiding legal immigrants, will encourage new waves of illegal immigrants and makes a mockery of our laws,” Miller said. [Orange County Register, 1/08/04]
Claimed Granting Amnesty Would Bring More Job Competition. In December 2010, Miller claimed that granting amnesty to illegal immigrants would bring more job competition. “By granting mass amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants, Americans will face even more competition for scarce jobs…Americans don’t want amnesty for those who have broken our nation’s immigration laws; they want an opportunity to go back to work,” Miller said. [San Bernardino County Sun, 12/08/10]
Miller Says He Understands DREAMers’ Plight Because He Moved from Arkansas to California as a Young Child. “California Republican Rep. Gary Miller has earned a reputation as an immigration hardliner, but when confronted by a group of young immigrants Friday at a public event in Rancho Cucamonga (which had a $12 entry fee), Miller told them he understands their plight because he, too, is an immigrant, of sorts, moving with his family from Arkansas to California as a young child..[..] “You know, I’ve talked to a lot of young people like [you],” Miller told the young activists, captured in footage taken by a Democratic tracker. “I mean, I understand the difficulty. Just like I was born in Arkansas. I came here when I was a year old.” [Washington Post, 8/27/13]
Referred to Children of Undocumented Immigrants as “Anchor Babies.” In January 2011, Miller said that he joined Steve King in introducing a bill to “end birthright citizenship for anchor babies.” [Miller Official Twitter, 1/07/11]
Called Democratic Party Discussion on Amnesty Legislation “Unconscionable.” In July 2010, Miller called the Democratic Party efforts to discuss amnesty legislation as “unconscionable.” “Rather than discuss amnesty legislation for those that have broken our nation’s immigration laws, I think the Judiciary Committee should use its time and resources to investigate this double standard,” Miller said. [San Bernardino County Sun, 7/14/10]
Miller: "Wrong to Award Citizenship." In December 2009, Miller said “It is simply wrong to award citizenship to those that have recklessly disregarded our nation’s immigration laws,” Miller said. [Orange County Register, 12/16/09]
Miller: Comprehensive Immigration Reform Means Amnesty. In July 2010 Miller criticized President Obama for not providing the money needed to fight crime along the border. He said, “They’re not dealing with the problem…He wants comprehensive immigration reform, which means amnesty.” [Orange County Register, 7/02/10]
Said He Would Vote Against Any Bill That Was Not Enforcement Only Measure. In 2006, Miller said he would vote against any immigration bill that was not an enforcement-only measure. [Orange County Register, 3/30/06]
Voted to Make Undocumented Immigration a Felony. In 2005, Miller voted for the House immigration bill that would create criminal penalties for undocumented immigration including making living in the country illegally a felony and a crime to assist illegal immigrants. [HR 4437, Vote # 661, 12/16/05, CQ Quarterly Weekly, 12/23/05]
Voted Against the DREAM Act. In 2010, Miller voted against the DREAM Act, which would provide a path to legal residency for hundreds of thousands of young, undocumented immigrants first brought to the United States illegally by their parents. [HR 5281, Vote #625, 12/08/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Miller voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Defended the Arizona Immigration Law. In December 2010, Miller defended Arizona’s immigration law, SB 1070, as simply reiterating federal law stating “that violating federal immigration law is a state crime as well” and that violators can be arrested by local law enforcement. [Washington Times, LTE, 12/09/10]
Said Republicans Needed to Support Arizona. In October 2010, Miller told a California rally featuring Sarah Palin that Republicans needed to “support Arizona,” referencing the immigration law. [Politico, 10/16/10]
Called Department of Justice Lawsuit Against Arizona’s Immigration Law “Baseless." In July 2010, Miller said the Department of Justice’s challenge to the Arizona immigration law is baseless…The Arizona law simply requires non-citizens to follow the federal law,” Miller said. [Orange County Register, 7/07/10]
Miller: End Birthright Citizenship for Illegal Immigrants. In April 2010, the San Bernardino County Sun wrote that Miller went on television to "renew his call for an end to birthright citizenship. The 14th Amendment to the Constitution automatically grants citizenship to any person born on American soil, regardless of the immigration status of the child's parents. Miller is carrying a bill to prevent children from becoming citizens at birth if both of their parents are illegal immigrants." Miller said, “Let’s just define the 14th Amendment to make it clear that if that child is born here in the United States, it’s not a citizen." [San Bernardino County Sun, 4/15/10]
Press Enterprise: Miller “National Leader on Anti-Illegal Immigration Measures.” In 2013, Press Enterprise referred to Miler as “a national leader on anti-illegal immigration measures. [Press-Enterprise, 4/05/13]
Opposed 2004 Proposed Immigration Reform. In 2004, Miller opposed Bush’s proposed immigration reform. “This proposal rewards law-breakers, is unfair to law-abiding legal immigrants, will encourage new waves of illegal immigrants and makes a mockery of our laws,” Miller said. [Orange County Register, 1/08/04]
Claimed Granting Amnesty Would Bring More Job Competition. In December 2010, Miller claimed that granting amnesty to illegal immigrants would bring more job competition. “By granting mass amnesty to millions of illegal immigrants, Americans will face even more competition for scarce jobs…Americans don’t want amnesty for those who have broken our nation’s immigration laws; they want an opportunity to go back to work,” Miller said. [San Bernardino County Sun, 12/08/10]
Markwayne Mullin (OK-02)
Congressman Markwayne Mullin Called to Reject Amnesty Proposals. “We must protect America’s borders to stop illegal immigration. Amnesty proposals should be rejected.” [Mullin for Congress, accessed 4/19/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Mullin voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Markwayne Mullin Called to Reject Amnesty Proposals. “We must protect America’s borders to stop illegal immigration. Amnesty proposals should be rejected.” [Mullin for Congress, accessed 4/19/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Mullin voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Tim Murphy (PA-18)
Murphy said DREAM Act Puts Undocumented Immigrants Ahead of Pennsylvanians. In a press release entitled, “DREAM Act Delivers Amnesty for Millions of Illegal Immigrants,” Murphy said, “How can the defeated Democrat majority put the interests of illegal immigrants ahead of those Pennsylvania families? Families work and save all their lives to put their children through college. And now with this bill, they will have to compete with illegal immigrants for the finite amount of student aid. This is an insult.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 12/8/10]
Murphy Said DREAM Act Was “Antithesis” Of Immigration Reform. In a press release entitled, “DREAM Act Delivers Amnesty for Millions of Illegal Immigrants,” Murphy said, “The DREAM Act is not immigration reform. In fact, it is the antithesis of reform because once an individual files an application for DREAM Act benefits, no matter how fraudulent, the federal government is prohibited from deporting that person.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 12/8/10]
Murphy Expressed Support For Arizona Immigration Law And Criticized Obama. In a press release, Murphy said, “Facing a security crisis on the Mexican border, Arizona empowered its local police officers to protect their citizenry and do what the Administration has refused to do: enforce immigration law. The Supreme Court's decision underscores the urgency with which we must address immigration enforcement, which is a duty and responsibility of the federal government. While this ruling addresses the constitutional questions of the Arizona law, the larger issue of border security remains unresolved because this Administration has focused on suing states instead of working towards a solution to stop illegal entry at the border.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 6/25/12]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Murphy voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Murphy Said Congress is “DREAMing” if it Thinks Americans Will Support DREAM Act. In a press release entitled, “DREAM Act Delivers Amnesty for Millions of Illegal Immigrants,” Murphy said, “The outgoing Democrat majority in Congress is DREAMing if they believe a majority of Americans support granting amnesty and giving federal benefits to illegal immigrants. When will they wake up? States right now cannot pay for Medicaid. With this act, Congress burdens states with millions of more recipients that they cannot afford.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 12/8/10]
Murphy Claimed Obama Immigration Policy “Undermines . . . the Rule of Law.” A press release from the Office of Congress Murphy said: “Obama Administration unilaterally changed the process by which illegal entrants are deported. According to a new directive from Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, the Administration will no longer enforce deportation laws for younger illegal immigrants.” Murphy said of this decision: “ This announcement is an insult to all Americans who are struggling to find work in a tough economy and its an affront to legal immigrants who played by the rules and came to the United States through legal means . . . But, most significantly, it undermines a core principle of our nation: the rule of law. With the stroke of a pen, this no-deportation order allowed tens of thousands of illegal immigrants to break our nation's entry laws.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 6/22/12]
Murphy Asked Sebelius for Details on Cost of President’s Immigration Reform Plan. In a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Murphy said, “For Congress to properly evaluate the President’s immigration reform plan, there has to be a full accounting of the costs to taxpayers if millions of individuals are made eligible for Medicaid, Medicare, and new government insurance subsidies under the Affordable Care Act . . . With Medicare on the brink of insolvency and the nation in $16 trillion of debt, it would be irresponsible to act on the President’s immigration plan without first obtaining an accurate tabulation of these new costs. I urge Secretary Sebelius to respond promptly to provide Members of Congress with all pertinent information related to this issue.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 2/20/13]
2006: After Border Security Trip, Murphy Called Illegal Immigration a “Crisis.” Following a trip to Laredo, TX to study border security, Murphy said in a press release, “Illegal immigration is crisis for our country. It is an open door for drugs, criminals, and potential terrorists to enter our country. It is straining our economy, adding costs to our judicial, healthcare, and education systems. Amnesty is not the answer as it will only encourage more illegal immigrants to enter. We must safely secure our border by investing in more law enforcement and technology, and receiving cooperation from the Mexican government.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 8/7/06]
Murphy said DREAM Act Puts Undocumented Immigrants Ahead of Pennsylvanians. In a press release entitled, “DREAM Act Delivers Amnesty for Millions of Illegal Immigrants,” Murphy said, “How can the defeated Democrat majority put the interests of illegal immigrants ahead of those Pennsylvania families? Families work and save all their lives to put their children through college. And now with this bill, they will have to compete with illegal immigrants for the finite amount of student aid. This is an insult.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 12/8/10]
Murphy Said DREAM Act Was “Antithesis” Of Immigration Reform. In a press release entitled, “DREAM Act Delivers Amnesty for Millions of Illegal Immigrants,” Murphy said, “The DREAM Act is not immigration reform. In fact, it is the antithesis of reform because once an individual files an application for DREAM Act benefits, no matter how fraudulent, the federal government is prohibited from deporting that person.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 12/8/10]
Murphy Expressed Support For Arizona Immigration Law And Criticized Obama. In a press release, Murphy said, “Facing a security crisis on the Mexican border, Arizona empowered its local police officers to protect their citizenry and do what the Administration has refused to do: enforce immigration law. The Supreme Court's decision underscores the urgency with which we must address immigration enforcement, which is a duty and responsibility of the federal government. While this ruling addresses the constitutional questions of the Arizona law, the larger issue of border security remains unresolved because this Administration has focused on suing states instead of working towards a solution to stop illegal entry at the border.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 6/25/12]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Murphy voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Murphy Said Congress is “DREAMing” if it Thinks Americans Will Support DREAM Act. In a press release entitled, “DREAM Act Delivers Amnesty for Millions of Illegal Immigrants,” Murphy said, “The outgoing Democrat majority in Congress is DREAMing if they believe a majority of Americans support granting amnesty and giving federal benefits to illegal immigrants. When will they wake up? States right now cannot pay for Medicaid. With this act, Congress burdens states with millions of more recipients that they cannot afford.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 12/8/10]
Murphy Claimed Obama Immigration Policy “Undermines . . . the Rule of Law.” A press release from the Office of Congress Murphy said: “Obama Administration unilaterally changed the process by which illegal entrants are deported. According to a new directive from Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, the Administration will no longer enforce deportation laws for younger illegal immigrants.” Murphy said of this decision: “ This announcement is an insult to all Americans who are struggling to find work in a tough economy and its an affront to legal immigrants who played by the rules and came to the United States through legal means . . . But, most significantly, it undermines a core principle of our nation: the rule of law. With the stroke of a pen, this no-deportation order allowed tens of thousands of illegal immigrants to break our nation's entry laws.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 6/22/12]
Murphy Asked Sebelius for Details on Cost of President’s Immigration Reform Plan. In a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Murphy said, “For Congress to properly evaluate the President’s immigration reform plan, there has to be a full accounting of the costs to taxpayers if millions of individuals are made eligible for Medicaid, Medicare, and new government insurance subsidies under the Affordable Care Act . . . With Medicare on the brink of insolvency and the nation in $16 trillion of debt, it would be irresponsible to act on the President’s immigration plan without first obtaining an accurate tabulation of these new costs. I urge Secretary Sebelius to respond promptly to provide Members of Congress with all pertinent information related to this issue.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 2/20/13]
2006: After Border Security Trip, Murphy Called Illegal Immigration a “Crisis.” Following a trip to Laredo, TX to study border security, Murphy said in a press release, “Illegal immigration is crisis for our country. It is an open door for drugs, criminals, and potential terrorists to enter our country. It is straining our economy, adding costs to our judicial, healthcare, and education systems. Amnesty is not the answer as it will only encourage more illegal immigrants to enter. We must safely secure our border by investing in more law enforcement and technology, and receiving cooperation from the Mexican government.” [Office of Tim Murphy, 8/7/06]
Steve Pearce (NM-02)
Opposes Senate Immigration Reform Bill That Includes Billions in Border Security. In 2013, Pearce said he would oppose the Senate immigration reform bill. "I don't know how any Republican could look a TV camera or a constituent in the eye and not say that this amendment strengthens ... the border and makes our border more secure," said Republican Senator Bob Corker of Tennessee, who helped write the amendment. [Albuquerque Journal, 6/30/13; Reuters, 6/26/13; CNN, 6/28/13; Washington Post, 6/27/13]
Pearce: Undocumented Immigrants “Should Go Home and Get in the 20-year Line.” In 2010, Pearce said “People who come here without documentation, if they want to be a citizen, they should go back home and get in the 20-year line. I do not think that a pathway to citizenship - amnesty is what it's called - is productive for securing the border.” [Albuquerque Journal, 10/10/10]
Opposed Legalization for Undocumented Immigrants. In 2008, according to Albuquerque Business First, “Pearce flatly rejected the idea of legalization for anyone here illegally.” [Albuquerque Business First, 8/22/08]
“Defended” the Arizona Immigration Enforcement Law. In 2010, Pearce “defended” Arizona’s immigration enforcement law. [Albuquerque Journal, 7/29/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Pearce voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Opposed President Obama’s Directive to Stop Deporting Children of Undocumented Immigrants. In 2012, Pearce criticized and opposed President Obama’s directive that the federal government would no longer deport children brought to the country without documentation. [Las Cruces Sun-News, 6/17/12]
Opposed the DREAM Act. In 2010, during his congressional bid, Pearce said that he opposed the federal DREAM Act. [Las Cruces Sun-News, 12/02/10]
Against a Pathway to Citizenship to be Included in Immigration Reform. In 2013, Pearce spokesman said Pearce did not support a pathway for citizenship for undocumented immigrants. [National Journal, 3/18/13]
Supported Penalizing States, Counties and Cities That Did Not Report Illegal Immigrants. In 2008, Pearce supported legislation that would penalize states, counties and cities including Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Rio Arriba County that do not report undocumented immigrants to federal authorities. [Albuquerque Journal, 4/18/08]
Said Birthright Citizenship Should be Amended. In 2010, when asked in a KRWG-FM radio debate about his position on birthright citizenship - the granting of citizenship to undocumented immigrants’ children born on U.S. soil under the 14th Amendment - Pearce suggested a change to the current practice. “Maybe we can do something like not allow the birthright citizenship to take place until the person is of majority age, until maybe they are 18,” said Pearce. [Albuquerque Journal, 9/21/10]
Las Cruces Sun News: Pearce “to the Right” of President George W. Bush on Immigration. In 2008, Las Cruces Sun News wrote Steve Pearce’s position on immigration was “to the right” of President George W. Bush. [Las Cruces Sun-News, 10/18/08]
Supported English as the Official Language of the U.S. In 2011, Pearce said “I support English as the official language of the U.S.,” said Pearce in a statement. [Albuquerque Journal, 3/24/11]
Voted for the Real ID Act of 2005 that Restricted Drivers Licenses to Illegal Immigrants. In 2005, Pearce voted for the Real ID Act of 2005 that would require all states to obtain proof of legal status and verify all documents before issuing a driver’s license. “This act strengthens our current laws,” Pearce said, adding that he supports requiring applicants for driver’s licenses to prove that they are in the country legally. [Albuquerque Journal, 2/11/05, Associated Press, 2/18/05]
Opposes Senate Immigration Reform Bill That Includes Billions in Border Security. In 2013, Pearce said he would oppose the Senate immigration reform bill. "I don't know how any Republican could look a TV camera or a constituent in the eye and not say that this amendment strengthens ... the border and makes our border more secure," said Republican Senator Bob Corker of Tennessee, who helped write the amendment. [Albuquerque Journal, 6/30/13; Reuters, 6/26/13; CNN, 6/28/13; Washington Post, 6/27/13]
Pearce: Undocumented Immigrants “Should Go Home and Get in the 20-year Line.” In 2010, Pearce said “People who come here without documentation, if they want to be a citizen, they should go back home and get in the 20-year line. I do not think that a pathway to citizenship - amnesty is what it's called - is productive for securing the border.” [Albuquerque Journal, 10/10/10]
Opposed Legalization for Undocumented Immigrants. In 2008, according to Albuquerque Business First, “Pearce flatly rejected the idea of legalization for anyone here illegally.” [Albuquerque Business First, 8/22/08]
“Defended” the Arizona Immigration Enforcement Law. In 2010, Pearce “defended” Arizona’s immigration enforcement law. [Albuquerque Journal, 7/29/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Pearce voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Opposed President Obama’s Directive to Stop Deporting Children of Undocumented Immigrants. In 2012, Pearce criticized and opposed President Obama’s directive that the federal government would no longer deport children brought to the country without documentation. [Las Cruces Sun-News, 6/17/12]
Opposed the DREAM Act. In 2010, during his congressional bid, Pearce said that he opposed the federal DREAM Act. [Las Cruces Sun-News, 12/02/10]
Against a Pathway to Citizenship to be Included in Immigration Reform. In 2013, Pearce spokesman said Pearce did not support a pathway for citizenship for undocumented immigrants. [National Journal, 3/18/13]
Supported Penalizing States, Counties and Cities That Did Not Report Illegal Immigrants. In 2008, Pearce supported legislation that would penalize states, counties and cities including Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Rio Arriba County that do not report undocumented immigrants to federal authorities. [Albuquerque Journal, 4/18/08]
Said Birthright Citizenship Should be Amended. In 2010, when asked in a KRWG-FM radio debate about his position on birthright citizenship - the granting of citizenship to undocumented immigrants’ children born on U.S. soil under the 14th Amendment - Pearce suggested a change to the current practice. “Maybe we can do something like not allow the birthright citizenship to take place until the person is of majority age, until maybe they are 18,” said Pearce. [Albuquerque Journal, 9/21/10]
Las Cruces Sun News: Pearce “to the Right” of President George W. Bush on Immigration. In 2008, Las Cruces Sun News wrote Steve Pearce’s position on immigration was “to the right” of President George W. Bush. [Las Cruces Sun-News, 10/18/08]
Supported English as the Official Language of the U.S. In 2011, Pearce said “I support English as the official language of the U.S.,” said Pearce in a statement. [Albuquerque Journal, 3/24/11]
Voted for the Real ID Act of 2005 that Restricted Drivers Licenses to Illegal Immigrants. In 2005, Pearce voted for the Real ID Act of 2005 that would require all states to obtain proof of legal status and verify all documents before issuing a driver’s license. “This act strengthens our current laws,” Pearce said, adding that he supports requiring applicants for driver’s licenses to prove that they are in the country legally. [Albuquerque Journal, 2/11/05, Associated Press, 2/18/05]
Tom Reed (NY-23)
April 2013: Reed Preferred “No Path to Citizenship.” In April 2013, Reed said he would prefer “no path to citizenship, just legal status – maybe their kids would have an opportunity apply for citizenship,” the Leader reported. [Leader, 4/16/13]
Supported Arizona Immigration Law. “The immigration law, as I have perused it and looked at it, I stand for,” Reed said. [Star-Gazette, 5/06/10]
Reed: "Illegal Aliens" Not a “Huge Issue.” In 2009, the Corning Leader reported that “Reed said he didn’t consider illegal aliens a huge issue.” [Corning Leader, 7/07/09]
Said He Supported Temporary Agricultural Visas for Workers. In July 2010, Reed said he was a strong supporter of H-2A Temporary Agricultural Visas. The program allowed agricultural employers to hire temporary workers for seasonal employment. [Star-Gazette, 6/08/10]
Reed: “I Firmly Don't Believe in Amnesty.” In April 2013, Reed said he firmly did not believe in amnesty. “I firmly don't believe in Amnesty, there needs to be recognition that those who violated the rules, when they came here need to pay a penalty for that violation and those who complied by the rules are rewarded and recognized for doing the right thing as opposed to those who did the wrong thing.” [WENY, 4/15/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Reed voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
April 2013: Reed Preferred “No Path to Citizenship.” In April 2013, Reed said he would prefer “no path to citizenship, just legal status – maybe their kids would have an opportunity apply for citizenship,” the Leader reported. [Leader, 4/16/13]
Supported Arizona Immigration Law. “The immigration law, as I have perused it and looked at it, I stand for,” Reed said. [Star-Gazette, 5/06/10]
Reed: "Illegal Aliens" Not a “Huge Issue.” In 2009, the Corning Leader reported that “Reed said he didn’t consider illegal aliens a huge issue.” [Corning Leader, 7/07/09]
Said He Supported Temporary Agricultural Visas for Workers. In July 2010, Reed said he was a strong supporter of H-2A Temporary Agricultural Visas. The program allowed agricultural employers to hire temporary workers for seasonal employment. [Star-Gazette, 6/08/10]
Reed: “I Firmly Don't Believe in Amnesty.” In April 2013, Reed said he firmly did not believe in amnesty. “I firmly don't believe in Amnesty, there needs to be recognition that those who violated the rules, when they came here need to pay a penalty for that violation and those who complied by the rules are rewarded and recognized for doing the right thing as opposed to those who did the wrong thing.” [WENY, 4/15/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Reed voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Jim Renacci (OH-16)
Renacci Said He’s “100% Opposed to Amnesty.” On his campaign website, Renacci wrote, “I am 100% opposed to amnesty for illegal immigrants. The U.S. government should never be in the practice of issuing any form of legal benefits to those whose first act in our country is violating our federal laws.” [Renacci for Congress, accessed 4/26/13]
Renacci Had “Serious Concerns” That the Senate Immigration Bill “Does Not Go Far Enough in Addressing Border Security.” “Recently, I have been hearing from constituents who are very concerned about our broken immigration system. While I applaud the efforts of some Senate Republicans to fix what is wrong with the way we keep people out and let people into this country, I have serious concerns that the bill being debated in the Senate does not go far enough in addressing border security,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 6/21/13]
Renacci Claimed That Securing The Border Was First Step In Immigration Reform. “I believe we must secure the border before we consider next steps for those who are already here illegally. That has to be the first step to fixing the problem. Otherwise, much like the 1986 immigration bill, we will give millions of illegal immigrants’ citizenship only to see millions more cross our borders. That would put us right back where we are today,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 6/21/13]
Renacci Said He Would Not Support “Any Bill That Does Not Seal Our Border or That Grants Blanket Amnesty.” “However, I do not believe we should grant amnesty, nor issue benefits, to those choosing to enter our country illegally. Simply put, any bill that does not seal our border or that grants blanket amnesty or provides programs like Medicare and Medicaid to those who are here illegally will not get my vote,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 6/21/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Renacci voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Renacci Said Immigration Reform Must Begin with Border Enforcement “In my opinion, any immigration reform proposal must begin with border enforcement. In order to protect our economy, our national security and our sovereignty, we must protect our border. No changes should be made to the legal status of those who are here without documents until the border is secure,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 2/08/13]
Renacci Said 12 Million Undocumented People in America Should Not be “Rewarded,” but “Deportation is Simply Unrealistic.” “With regard to the 12 million undocumented people who reside in this country, under no circumstances should they be given preferential treatment or rewarded for entering this country illegally. I recognized that we are a nation of immigrants and that the idea of rounding up 12 million people for deportation is simply unrealistic,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 2/08/13]
Renacci Said That Those Who are Here Illegally And Commit A Crime Should Be Deported Immediately. “[W]e must draw a clear distinction between those who have come here legally and those who did not. If you have come here illegally and then committed another crime within our borders, you should be deported immediately,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 2/08/13]
Renacci Supported Breaking Up Families, Not Applying Legal Residency to Relatives. “[I]f you can pass a background check and pay back taxes, I am open to considering plans that would allow those individuals to earn temporary legal status and then take a place at the back of the line to seek permanent legal residency. However, any such proposal must be very narrowly tailored and should not apply to any other individuals, relatives or otherwise,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 2/08/13]
Renacci Said of Immigration Reform: “I Recognize The Realities Of The Current Situation And I Am Open To Finding A Responsible Path Forward.” “I continue to have deep concerns about what an influx of new immigrants would mean for our economy, which is already struggling to provide jobs for Americans. However, I recognize the realities of the current situation and I am open to finding a responsible path forward,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 2/08/13]
Renacci Said He’s “100% Opposed to Amnesty.” On his campaign website, Renacci wrote, “I am 100% opposed to amnesty for illegal immigrants. The U.S. government should never be in the practice of issuing any form of legal benefits to those whose first act in our country is violating our federal laws.” [Renacci for Congress, accessed 4/26/13]
Renacci Had “Serious Concerns” That the Senate Immigration Bill “Does Not Go Far Enough in Addressing Border Security.” “Recently, I have been hearing from constituents who are very concerned about our broken immigration system. While I applaud the efforts of some Senate Republicans to fix what is wrong with the way we keep people out and let people into this country, I have serious concerns that the bill being debated in the Senate does not go far enough in addressing border security,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 6/21/13]
Renacci Claimed That Securing The Border Was First Step In Immigration Reform. “I believe we must secure the border before we consider next steps for those who are already here illegally. That has to be the first step to fixing the problem. Otherwise, much like the 1986 immigration bill, we will give millions of illegal immigrants’ citizenship only to see millions more cross our borders. That would put us right back where we are today,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 6/21/13]
Renacci Said He Would Not Support “Any Bill That Does Not Seal Our Border or That Grants Blanket Amnesty.” “However, I do not believe we should grant amnesty, nor issue benefits, to those choosing to enter our country illegally. Simply put, any bill that does not seal our border or that grants blanket amnesty or provides programs like Medicare and Medicaid to those who are here illegally will not get my vote,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 6/21/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Renacci voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Renacci Said Immigration Reform Must Begin with Border Enforcement “In my opinion, any immigration reform proposal must begin with border enforcement. In order to protect our economy, our national security and our sovereignty, we must protect our border. No changes should be made to the legal status of those who are here without documents until the border is secure,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 2/08/13]
Renacci Said 12 Million Undocumented People in America Should Not be “Rewarded,” but “Deportation is Simply Unrealistic.” “With regard to the 12 million undocumented people who reside in this country, under no circumstances should they be given preferential treatment or rewarded for entering this country illegally. I recognized that we are a nation of immigrants and that the idea of rounding up 12 million people for deportation is simply unrealistic,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 2/08/13]
Renacci Said That Those Who are Here Illegally And Commit A Crime Should Be Deported Immediately. “[W]e must draw a clear distinction between those who have come here legally and those who did not. If you have come here illegally and then committed another crime within our borders, you should be deported immediately,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 2/08/13]
Renacci Supported Breaking Up Families, Not Applying Legal Residency to Relatives. “[I]f you can pass a background check and pay back taxes, I am open to considering plans that would allow those individuals to earn temporary legal status and then take a place at the back of the line to seek permanent legal residency. However, any such proposal must be very narrowly tailored and should not apply to any other individuals, relatives or otherwise,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 2/08/13]
Renacci Said of Immigration Reform: “I Recognize The Realities Of The Current Situation And I Am Open To Finding A Responsible Path Forward.” “I continue to have deep concerns about what an influx of new immigrants would mean for our economy, which is already struggling to provide jobs for Americans. However, I recognize the realities of the current situation and I am open to finding a responsible path forward,” Renacci wrote in an op-ed for Daily Record. [Daily Record, 2/08/13]
Scott Rigell (VA-02)
Congressman Scott Rigell Signed a Pledge to Oppose Amnesty. In 2010, Rigell signed a Tea Party pledge promising, “To fight against any measure that subverts U.S. sovereignty, whether through trade, currency, environmental causes, the United Nations, immigration amnesty, or under the guise of human rights.” [Washington Post, 8/27/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Rigell voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Scott Rigell Signed a Pledge to Oppose Amnesty. In 2010, Rigell signed a Tea Party pledge promising, “To fight against any measure that subverts U.S. sovereignty, whether through trade, currency, environmental causes, the United Nations, immigration amnesty, or under the guise of human rights.” [Washington Post, 8/27/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Rigell voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Dana Rohrabacher (CA-48)
Rohrabacher: No Benefits and Immigrants Will Go Home. “You make sure that people who are here illegally do not get jobs, and they don’t get benefits and they will go home. It’s called attrition. I don’t happen to believe in deportation. If you make sure they don’t get jobs and they don’t get benefits, I mean Mitt [Romney] called it self-deportation, but it’s not; it’s just attrition. They’ll go home on their own,” Rohrabacher said. [Politico, 4/11/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Rohrabacher voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Rohrabacher: No Benefits and Immigrants Will Go Home. “You make sure that people who are here illegally do not get jobs, and they don’t get benefits and they will go home. It’s called attrition. I don’t happen to believe in deportation. If you make sure they don’t get jobs and they don’t get benefits, I mean Mitt [Romney] called it self-deportation, but it’s not; it’s just attrition. They’ll go home on their own,” Rohrabacher said. [Politico, 4/11/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Rohrabacher voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Peter Roskam (IL-06)
Roskam: “Pipe Dream” for Senate Immigration Bill to Have Vote in House. In 2013, Roskam told reporters gathered at a National Review breakfast briefing that the House was unlikely to act on the Senate immigration bill saying, “The House has no capacity to move that bill in its entirety… It just won’t happen. It is a pipe dream to think that bill is going to go to the floor and be voted on.” [National Review, 6/27/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Roskam voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Roskam: “Pipe Dream” for Senate Immigration Bill to Have Vote in House. In 2013, Roskam told reporters gathered at a National Review breakfast briefing that the House was unlikely to act on the Senate immigration bill saying, “The House has no capacity to move that bill in its entirety… It just won’t happen. It is a pipe dream to think that bill is going to go to the floor and be voted on.” [National Review, 6/27/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Roskam voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Keith Rothfus (PA-12)
Rothfus: “If You're Here Illegally, You Need to Go Back to the Country You Came Here From and Get in Line.” In April 2010, Rothfus said he did not support amnesty and “if you're here illegally, you need to go back to the country you came here from and get in line.” [The Examiner, 4/24/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Rothfus voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Rothfus: “If You're Here Illegally, You Need to Go Back to the Country You Came Here From and Get in Line.” In April 2010, Rothfus said he did not support amnesty and “if you're here illegally, you need to go back to the country you came here from and get in line.” [The Examiner, 4/24/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Rothfus voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Jon Runyan (NJ-03)
Runyan: “…I Commend the People of Arizona for Taking Decisive Action and Confronting this Growing Crisis Head-On.” In 2010, Runyan’s campaign website said, “When it comes to immigration and border security, the federal government has simply failed to do its job, and that is why I commend the people of Arizona for taking decisive action and confronting this growing crisis head-on. The Justice Department decision to sue Arizona for taking such action is an outrage and I strongly support Arizona in their legal fight.” [Runyan for Congress, accessed 11/11/10; South Jersey Magazine, 10/10]
Runyan: “Anyone Here Illegally Should be sent Back Home and Required to Enter Our Country Legally and Through the Proper Channels.” In 2010, Runyan’s campaign website said, “Anyone here illegally should be sent back home and required to enter our country legally and through the proper channels.” [Runyan for Congress, accessed 11/11/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Rothfus voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Runyan: “I support E-Verify.” In 2010, Runyan’s campaign website said, “I also support E-Verify to ensure the employers are required to confirm the immigration status of prospective employees prior to hiring them.” [Runyan for Congress, accessed 11/11/10]
Runyan: “…I Commend the People of Arizona for Taking Decisive Action and Confronting this Growing Crisis Head-On.” In 2010, Runyan’s campaign website said, “When it comes to immigration and border security, the federal government has simply failed to do its job, and that is why I commend the people of Arizona for taking decisive action and confronting this growing crisis head-on. The Justice Department decision to sue Arizona for taking such action is an outrage and I strongly support Arizona in their legal fight.” [Runyan for Congress, accessed 11/11/10; South Jersey Magazine, 10/10]
Runyan: “Anyone Here Illegally Should be sent Back Home and Required to Enter Our Country Legally and Through the Proper Channels.” In 2010, Runyan’s campaign website said, “Anyone here illegally should be sent back home and required to enter our country legally and through the proper channels.” [Runyan for Congress, accessed 11/11/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Rothfus voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Runyan: “I support E-Verify.” In 2010, Runyan’s campaign website said, “I also support E-Verify to ensure the employers are required to confirm the immigration status of prospective employees prior to hiring them.” [Runyan for Congress, accessed 11/11/10]
Steve Southerland (FL-02)
Congressman Southerland Opposed Senate Immigration Reform, Supported Narrow Plan Without Pathway to Citizenship. “Several, including 2nd District Rep. Steve Southerland, have made it clear they don’t care much for the Senate bill and might not even take it up […] The sentiments of Southerland, Radel and Rooney echo those of House leaders, including Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, who favor a narrower, more piecemeal approach to reform- one that doesn’t include a pathway to citizenship for illegal immigrants.” [Tallahassee Democrat, 7/04/13]
Congressman Steve Southerland Said We Had No Obligation to Feed Undocumented Immigrants in Jails. “I do not believe in amnesty. I’ve made that very clear […] We also know that our federal prisons are filled with people that are here illegally. We are now feeding them three squares a day, a bed, we’re giving them a gym. That’s where I would start. Bite number two, I think those people that are here incarcerated, they’ve committed crimes against the American people, violent crime. We have no obligation to continue to feed them going forward.” [Suwannee REC Meeting, 9/02/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Southerland voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Southerland Opposed Senate Immigration Reform, Supported Narrow Plan Without Pathway to Citizenship. “Several, including 2nd District Rep. Steve Southerland, have made it clear they don’t care much for the Senate bill and might not even take it up […] The sentiments of Southerland, Radel and Rooney echo those of House leaders, including Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, who favor a narrower, more piecemeal approach to reform- one that doesn’t include a pathway to citizenship for illegal immigrants.” [Tallahassee Democrat, 7/04/13]
Congressman Steve Southerland Said We Had No Obligation to Feed Undocumented Immigrants in Jails. “I do not believe in amnesty. I’ve made that very clear […] We also know that our federal prisons are filled with people that are here illegally. We are now feeding them three squares a day, a bed, we’re giving them a gym. That’s where I would start. Bite number two, I think those people that are here incarcerated, they’ve committed crimes against the American people, violent crime. We have no obligation to continue to feed them going forward.” [Suwannee REC Meeting, 9/02/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Southerland voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Steve Stockman (TX-36)
Congressman Steve Stockman Said the “Crush of Illegals” has “Crashed Local Economies.” “I cannot and will not support any immigration reform proposal that institutes an amnesty program [...]The crush of illegals have bankrupted local governments, shut down hospitals, overwhelmed schools and crashed local economies, hurting largely Hispanic citizens. That failure has fueled the growth of violent gangs, like MS-13, that prey upon illegals and target the children of Hispanic citizens.” [Office of Steve Stockman, 1/28/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Stockman voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Steve Stockman Said the “Crush of Illegals” has “Crashed Local Economies.” “I cannot and will not support any immigration reform proposal that institutes an amnesty program [...]The crush of illegals have bankrupted local governments, shut down hospitals, overwhelmed schools and crashed local economies, hurting largely Hispanic citizens. That failure has fueled the growth of violent gangs, like MS-13, that prey upon illegals and target the children of Hispanic citizens.” [Office of Steve Stockman, 1/28/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Stockman voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Scott Tipton (CO-03)
Agreed with Tancredo on No Amnesty for Undocumented Immigrants. In 2006, Tipton agreed with Rep. Tom Tancredo who, in opposition to the Bush administration, believed there should be no guest worker program established until undocumented immigration was stopped and those workers deported. [Pueblo Chieftain, 8/11/06]
Would Join Tancredo if Elected to Congress in Securing the Border. In August 2006, Tipton, at a rally with Tom Tancredo, expressed his commitment to a secure border with a fence. Tancredo endorsed Tipton saying he would be a reliable vote for border security. [Daily Sentinel, 8/11/06]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Tipton voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Opposed President Bush’s Immigration Plan. In 2005, Tipton did not support President Bush’s immigration plan, calling it “slap in the face” to legal immigrants and citizens. Tipton said the border should first be secured and “then we'll deal with the other issues.” [National Journal, 5/17/06]
Supported “Red Card Solution” for Immigration Reform. In 2010, Tipton supported a plan promoted by the Colorado-based Krieble Foundation, called the “Red Card Solution.” Under the plan, work permits or red cards, would be issued in foreign countries and tied to specific U.S. businesses. The number of permits would fluctuate with supply and demand in the U.S. economy, and employers would be punished for hiring immigrants who did not have a work permit. [Durango Herald, 8/23/10]
Tipton: Revision of 14th Amendment “Worthy of Discussion.” In 2010, Tipton said that revisions to the 14th amendment were worth considering in order to prevent undocumented immigration. He would not try to deport current citizens, but would look at changes for people yet to be born. “I think that that’s (14th amendment revision) worthy of discussion,” Tipton said. [Durango Herald, 8/23/10]
Opposed Changes to the 14th Amendment and Birthright Citizenship. In January 2011, Tipton said that birthright citizenship in America was a “settled question” and that he did not support changes to the 14th amendment. Matthews: “OK. So you’re not against birth citizenship? You‘re not against—you‘re not going to change the 14thAmendment? You‘re not one of those guys?” Tipton: “No.” [MSNBC Hardball, 1/6/2011]
Didn’t Support Amnesty or Deportation for Undocumented Immigrants. In 2006, Tipton was asked whether he supported Tancredo’s position on undocumented immigrants, which was complete deportation or the Bush administration’s plan for amnesty. Tipton said he would not “rubber-stamp” either view. “I think enforcing our border has to be the nation's top priority before you can solve anything else about immigration […] but am I in favor of mass deportation? No, that’s not realistic. I’ve talked to our farmers and ranchers and I know they need access to workers.” [Financial Technology Spotlight, 8/29/06]
Said He Agreed with Arizona’s “Show Me Your Papers” Provision. According to the Durango Herald: “The court upheld the part of Arizona’s law that requires police to check the status of people they suspect are illegal immigrants. Tipton said he think’s it’s OK for police to check someone’s immigration records if they stop a person for another reason, but he doesn’t want to see any police ‘dragnets’ specifically meant to find illegal immigrants.” [Durango Herald, 6/29/12]
Agreed with Tancredo on No Amnesty for Undocumented Immigrants. In 2006, Tipton agreed with Rep. Tom Tancredo who, in opposition to the Bush administration, believed there should be no guest worker program established until undocumented immigration was stopped and those workers deported. [Pueblo Chieftain, 8/11/06]
Would Join Tancredo if Elected to Congress in Securing the Border. In August 2006, Tipton, at a rally with Tom Tancredo, expressed his commitment to a secure border with a fence. Tancredo endorsed Tipton saying he would be a reliable vote for border security. [Daily Sentinel, 8/11/06]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Tipton voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Opposed President Bush’s Immigration Plan. In 2005, Tipton did not support President Bush’s immigration plan, calling it “slap in the face” to legal immigrants and citizens. Tipton said the border should first be secured and “then we'll deal with the other issues.” [National Journal, 5/17/06]
Supported “Red Card Solution” for Immigration Reform. In 2010, Tipton supported a plan promoted by the Colorado-based Krieble Foundation, called the “Red Card Solution.” Under the plan, work permits or red cards, would be issued in foreign countries and tied to specific U.S. businesses. The number of permits would fluctuate with supply and demand in the U.S. economy, and employers would be punished for hiring immigrants who did not have a work permit. [Durango Herald, 8/23/10]
Tipton: Revision of 14th Amendment “Worthy of Discussion.” In 2010, Tipton said that revisions to the 14th amendment were worth considering in order to prevent undocumented immigration. He would not try to deport current citizens, but would look at changes for people yet to be born. “I think that that’s (14th amendment revision) worthy of discussion,” Tipton said. [Durango Herald, 8/23/10]
Opposed Changes to the 14th Amendment and Birthright Citizenship. In January 2011, Tipton said that birthright citizenship in America was a “settled question” and that he did not support changes to the 14th amendment. Matthews: “OK. So you’re not against birth citizenship? You‘re not against—you‘re not going to change the 14thAmendment? You‘re not one of those guys?” Tipton: “No.” [MSNBC Hardball, 1/6/2011]
Didn’t Support Amnesty or Deportation for Undocumented Immigrants. In 2006, Tipton was asked whether he supported Tancredo’s position on undocumented immigrants, which was complete deportation or the Bush administration’s plan for amnesty. Tipton said he would not “rubber-stamp” either view. “I think enforcing our border has to be the nation's top priority before you can solve anything else about immigration […] but am I in favor of mass deportation? No, that’s not realistic. I’ve talked to our farmers and ranchers and I know they need access to workers.” [Financial Technology Spotlight, 8/29/06]
Said He Agreed with Arizona’s “Show Me Your Papers” Provision. According to the Durango Herald: “The court upheld the part of Arizona’s law that requires police to check the status of people they suspect are illegal immigrants. Tipton said he think’s it’s OK for police to check someone’s immigration records if they stop a person for another reason, but he doesn’t want to see any police ‘dragnets’ specifically meant to find illegal immigrants.” [Durango Herald, 6/29/12]
David Valadao (CA-21)
Valadao: Citizenship Should Not Be Direct Reward for Illegally Crossing Border. In 2012, “Valadao said enforcing the border with Mexico is priority but immigrants already in the United States must be better managed, such as by issuing them green cards and a driver’s license. But citizenship shouldn’t be a direct reward for illegally crossing the border.” [Bakersfield Californian, 5/03/12]
Voted Against California Dream Act. In 2011, as a state legislator, Valadao voted against two bills that composed the California Dream Act that would allow illegal immigrants to receive privately funded scholarships and state financial aid to attend the state’s public colleges and universities. [Reuters, 7/25/11, AB 130, 5/05/11, AB 131, 9/02/11]
Voted Against California’s “Anti-Arizona” bill Instructing Police to Release Illegal Immigrants. In 2012, as state assemblyman, Valadao voted against legislation known as the “anti-Arizona” bill that instructed police to release undocumented immigrants instead of handing them over to the federal government if they haven’t committed serious crimes. [AB 1081, 8/24/12; Monterey County Herald, 7/06/12]
Called for “Earned Legal Status.” In 2013, Valadao supported a proposal that would give illegal immigrants “earned legal status.” “The first step in comprehensive immigration reform is ensuring realistic and responsible path to earned legal status,” said Valadao. [Office of David Valadao, 2/13/13/]
Valadao: I Didn’t Think the King Amendment to Restart DREAM Act Deportations was Good Policy. In 2013, Valdao on the King amendment said “I just didn't think it was good policy.” He said Republicans need to talk about immigration, and "there is a lot of room to do the right thing." [Bakersfield Californian, 6/10/13]
Valadao: Citizenship Should Not Be Direct Reward for Illegally Crossing Border. In 2012, “Valadao said enforcing the border with Mexico is priority but immigrants already in the United States must be better managed, such as by issuing them green cards and a driver’s license. But citizenship shouldn’t be a direct reward for illegally crossing the border.” [Bakersfield Californian, 5/03/12]
Voted Against California Dream Act. In 2011, as a state legislator, Valadao voted against two bills that composed the California Dream Act that would allow illegal immigrants to receive privately funded scholarships and state financial aid to attend the state’s public colleges and universities. [Reuters, 7/25/11, AB 130, 5/05/11, AB 131, 9/02/11]
Voted Against California’s “Anti-Arizona” bill Instructing Police to Release Illegal Immigrants. In 2012, as state assemblyman, Valadao voted against legislation known as the “anti-Arizona” bill that instructed police to release undocumented immigrants instead of handing them over to the federal government if they haven’t committed serious crimes. [AB 1081, 8/24/12; Monterey County Herald, 7/06/12]
Called for “Earned Legal Status.” In 2013, Valadao supported a proposal that would give illegal immigrants “earned legal status.” “The first step in comprehensive immigration reform is ensuring realistic and responsible path to earned legal status,” said Valadao. [Office of David Valadao, 2/13/13/]
Valadao: I Didn’t Think the King Amendment to Restart DREAM Act Deportations was Good Policy. In 2013, Valdao on the King amendment said “I just didn't think it was good policy.” He said Republicans need to talk about immigration, and "there is a lot of room to do the right thing." [Bakersfield Californian, 6/10/13]
Jackie Walorski (IN-02)
Walorski: Eliminate Amnesty for Undocumented Workers. In September 2010, Walorski said, “We need to eliminate the option of “amnesty.” Until the federal government takes decisive action, the states should be allowed to invoke their sovereignty under the 14th Amendment.” [Journal and Courier, 9/01/10]
Against DREAM Act. In February 2008, Walorski said she did not support the DREAM Act. Walorski said, “There’s this huge question of fairness from hard-working people in terms of what gives here…My concern right now in higher education is that the children of U.S. citizens, hard-working middle-class kids, don’t have access now. They can’t afford it.” [The Elkhart Truth, 2/24/08]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congresswoman Walorski voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Named to Committee Studying Costs of Undocumented Immigration. In September 2008, Walorski was named to the Interim Study Committee on Immigration Issues, aimed at gathering information about the costs of illegal immigration to social services and law enforcement in Indiana. [State Senator Kruse Press Release, 8/10/08]
Said Committee Found Undocumented Immigrants Were Let Go After Committing “A Lot of Violent Crime.” In March 2010, Walorski said the study committee found, “Typically, what would happen in the State of Indiana, and probably around the rest of the country as well, is people would be arrested if they found out they were undocumented. Rather than mess with them in the prison or the jail system, they’d simply let them go. So, we have people committing felonies. We have a lot of misdemeanors. But, primarily, a lot of violent crime where people who were arrested and just let go because nobody wanted to mess with them.” [iCaucus Interview, 3/15/10]
Study Committee Failed to Produce Legislation. In November 2008, the immigration study committee failed to agree on any major or minor legislation to propose in the next legislative session. [Associated Press, 11/10/08]
Introduced Amendment Excluding Undocumented Workers From Receiving Benefits. In February 2009, Walorski introduced an amendment that would require Indiana’s Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning to change eligibility requirements to exclude illegal immigrants. The amendment passed by voice vote. [The Elkhart Truth, 2/26/09; HB 1653-4, Action List, 2/23/09]
State Policy Already Required Beneficiaries To Be Legal Residents. Walorski said that state policy already dictates that only legal residents can receive benefits, but that the amendment would require the OMPP to find out whether there is a problem by doing an audit of the system. Walorski said, “I honestly don’t know. There may not be anything to it…Sure, maybe some (illegal immigrants) are paying taxes while they live in Indiana illegally, but in my district, there are tens of thousands of illegals who don’t. We’ve got 18-24-year old men claiming 10 or more dependents, duping the systems.” [The Elkhart Truth, 2/26/09]
Walorski: Eliminate Amnesty for Undocumented Workers. In September 2010, Walorski said, “We need to eliminate the option of “amnesty.” Until the federal government takes decisive action, the states should be allowed to invoke their sovereignty under the 14th Amendment.” [Journal and Courier, 9/01/10]
Against DREAM Act. In February 2008, Walorski said she did not support the DREAM Act. Walorski said, “There’s this huge question of fairness from hard-working people in terms of what gives here…My concern right now in higher education is that the children of U.S. citizens, hard-working middle-class kids, don’t have access now. They can’t afford it.” [The Elkhart Truth, 2/24/08]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congresswoman Walorski voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Named to Committee Studying Costs of Undocumented Immigration. In September 2008, Walorski was named to the Interim Study Committee on Immigration Issues, aimed at gathering information about the costs of illegal immigration to social services and law enforcement in Indiana. [State Senator Kruse Press Release, 8/10/08]
Said Committee Found Undocumented Immigrants Were Let Go After Committing “A Lot of Violent Crime.” In March 2010, Walorski said the study committee found, “Typically, what would happen in the State of Indiana, and probably around the rest of the country as well, is people would be arrested if they found out they were undocumented. Rather than mess with them in the prison or the jail system, they’d simply let them go. So, we have people committing felonies. We have a lot of misdemeanors. But, primarily, a lot of violent crime where people who were arrested and just let go because nobody wanted to mess with them.” [iCaucus Interview, 3/15/10]
Study Committee Failed to Produce Legislation. In November 2008, the immigration study committee failed to agree on any major or minor legislation to propose in the next legislative session. [Associated Press, 11/10/08]
Introduced Amendment Excluding Undocumented Workers From Receiving Benefits. In February 2009, Walorski introduced an amendment that would require Indiana’s Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning to change eligibility requirements to exclude illegal immigrants. The amendment passed by voice vote. [The Elkhart Truth, 2/26/09; HB 1653-4, Action List, 2/23/09]
State Policy Already Required Beneficiaries To Be Legal Residents. Walorski said that state policy already dictates that only legal residents can receive benefits, but that the amendment would require the OMPP to find out whether there is a problem by doing an audit of the system. Walorski said, “I honestly don’t know. There may not be anything to it…Sure, maybe some (illegal immigrants) are paying taxes while they live in Indiana illegally, but in my district, there are tens of thousands of illegals who don’t. We’ve got 18-24-year old men claiming 10 or more dependents, duping the systems.” [The Elkhart Truth, 2/26/09]
Randy Weber (TX-14)
Congressman Randy Weber Called Immigrants “Takers.” “As the House rolls out its own version of comprehensive immigration reform, Rep. Randy Weber is coming under fire from Latino rights groups after spewing anti-immigrant rhetoric during an event hosted by Iowa Republican Rep. Steve King at the Capitol Wednesday. ‘Mr. President, build up this wall,’ Weber said in his remarks. ‘We need some sanity. The things that made America great are Americans like you that work and understand that it’s a sacrifice. You don’t get to come over here and be takers.’” [Houston Chronicle, 6/20/13]
Congressman Randy Weber Voted for Bill Called “The Largest Assault on Latinos in Modern History.” In 2011, Weber voted for a bill that would penalize cities with policies prohibiting law enforcement officers from inquiring about the immigration status of people they detain. Opponents said that the bill would lead to racial profiling and harassment, and Hispanic lawmakers called it “the largest assault on Latinos in modern history.” [HB 12, Vote # 891, 5/10/11; Texas Tribune, 5/10/11; Houston Chronicle, 6/30/11]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Weber voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Randy Weber Called Immigrants “Takers.” “As the House rolls out its own version of comprehensive immigration reform, Rep. Randy Weber is coming under fire from Latino rights groups after spewing anti-immigrant rhetoric during an event hosted by Iowa Republican Rep. Steve King at the Capitol Wednesday. ‘Mr. President, build up this wall,’ Weber said in his remarks. ‘We need some sanity. The things that made America great are Americans like you that work and understand that it’s a sacrifice. You don’t get to come over here and be takers.’” [Houston Chronicle, 6/20/13]
Congressman Randy Weber Voted for Bill Called “The Largest Assault on Latinos in Modern History.” In 2011, Weber voted for a bill that would penalize cities with policies prohibiting law enforcement officers from inquiring about the immigration status of people they detain. Opponents said that the bill would lead to racial profiling and harassment, and Hispanic lawmakers called it “the largest assault on Latinos in modern history.” [HB 12, Vote # 891, 5/10/11; Texas Tribune, 5/10/11; Houston Chronicle, 6/30/11]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Weber voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Dan Webster (FL-10)
Congressman Dan Webster Supported Arizona’s Right to Pass Anti-Immigrant Law. “The greatness of America is based on the American dream- liberty and opportunity, a dream that is made possible by the laws of the land. Condoning illegal immigration through amnesty or allowing it through passive enforcement destroys the very values that attract immigrants to our nation […] While immigration is best treated as a federal issue, Daniel Webster supports the right of states like Arizona to enact such laws as necessary to protect their state.” [Webster for Congress 2010, accessed 11/03/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Webster voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Dan Webster Supported Arizona’s Right to Pass Anti-Immigrant Law. “The greatness of America is based on the American dream- liberty and opportunity, a dream that is made possible by the laws of the land. Condoning illegal immigration through amnesty or allowing it through passive enforcement destroys the very values that attract immigrants to our nation […] While immigration is best treated as a federal issue, Daniel Webster supports the right of states like Arizona to enact such laws as necessary to protect their state.” [Webster for Congress 2010, accessed 11/03/10]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Webster voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Bill Young (FL-13)
Congressman Bill Young Said He Opposed “Any Attempts At Granting Amnesty.” “Congressman Young supports state efforts to assist federal officials in the enforcement of federal immigration laws. He believes that states like Arizona can provide vital assistance to federal officials by assisting in the transfer to Federal custody of those in the United States illegally […] Today, Young continues to oppose amnesty as a way of dealing with illegal immigration. With rumors circulating that the administration is considering a backdoor amnesty for the estimated 10.8 million illegal immigrants in the United States, Congressman Young has signed a letter to President Obama opposing this plan and will continue to oppose any attempts at granting amnesty to those who broke the law.” [Bill Young for Congress, accessed 4/18/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Young voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Congressman Bill Young Said He Opposed “Any Attempts At Granting Amnesty.” “Congressman Young supports state efforts to assist federal officials in the enforcement of federal immigration laws. He believes that states like Arizona can provide vital assistance to federal officials by assisting in the transfer to Federal custody of those in the United States illegally […] Today, Young continues to oppose amnesty as a way of dealing with illegal immigration. With rumors circulating that the administration is considering a backdoor amnesty for the estimated 10.8 million illegal immigrants in the United States, Congressman Young has signed a letter to President Obama opposing this plan and will continue to oppose any attempts at granting amnesty to those who broke the law.” [Bill Young for Congress, accessed 4/18/13]
Voted to Restart Deporting an Estimated 800,000 DREAM Act Eligible Young People. In 2013, Congressman Young voted for an amendment to the 2014 Homeland Security appropriations bill that would prohibit the use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement funds to implement President Obama’s June 2012 order that protects the “DREAMers” from deportation—those estimated 800,000 young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives. The amendment also prohibits other prosecutorial discretion policies that ensure the agency's immigration enforcement resources are targeted at serious criminals, and not at those who pose no threat to U.S. communities, such as victims of domestic violence and other crimes who come forward to seek protection and identify their abusers. The amendment passed, 224-201. [HR 2217, Vote #208, 6/06/13]
Don Young (AK-AL)
Don Young Called Immigrants that Worked on His Family Farm "Wetbacks." In 2013, Congressman Don Young told the following to a local radio station: “My father had a ranch; we used to have 50-60 wetbacks to pick tomatoes,” Young said. “It takes two people to pick the same tomatoes now. It’s all done by machine.” [KRBD, 3/28/13]
Don Young Called Immigrants that Worked on His Family Farm "Wetbacks." In 2013, Congressman Don Young told the following to a local radio station: “My father had a ranch; we used to have 50-60 wetbacks to pick tomatoes,” Young said. “It takes two people to pick the same tomatoes now. It’s all done by machine.” [KRBD, 3/28/13]
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