Elect Adam Smith

Smith Statement Opposing Republican Appropriation Bill For Border SituationAugust 1, 2014

Congressman Adam Smith released the following statement in opposition to the House Republican supplemental appropriation to address the humanitarian crisis at the border:

“Other than showing their absolute inability to lead the House of Representatives, Republicans also made clear that they have one priority:  to deport migrant children as quickly as possible.  This is clearly reflected by their attempts to strip Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and their supplemental appropriations bill, which prioritizes speedy removals above due process and the rights and safety of these children.  This is entirely wrong and unacceptable, and it’s why I strongly opposed this legislation.

“At a fundamental level, we must understand the humanitarian challenge our nation is currently faced with.  Thousands of young children have left their families, homes, and everything they know due to unimaginable violence and fear.  Sending these children back to some of the most dangerous countries in the world will not solve the problem and clearly highlights Republicans’ misguided thinking on this issue.

“As a nation of immigrants and refugees, and one that has always valued justice and fairness, we must give these children due process, access to legal representation, and treat them in the most humane and caring way possible.  And as a world leader in refugee resettlement, the United States can absolutely offer this, we just need to provide our agencies with the necessary resources to meet this challenge. I support the President’s request because it provides adequate funding to do so.”

Join the Campaign!