Immigration
Throughout our history, the United States has drawn immigrants searching for opportunity and a share in the American Dream. But just as we are a nation built largely and impressively by immigrants, America is also a nation of laws that must be obeyed and properly enforced to maintain order and ensure the safety of all citizens.
Unfortunately, our current immigration system is broken and desperately needs comprehensive reform that puts America first by strengthening security at the southern border, addressing the flood of illegal immigrants, improving enforcement of existing law and making the system fairer and more just for all. I applaud President Trump for proposing real solutions to deal with the nation’s broken immigration system and to preserve America’s great standing and leadership in the world.
However, for any successful reforms to become law in divided government, bipartisanship is critical. As Congress considers reforms to update our immigration system, I will be guided by three basic principles: we must secure the border first; we must have tough sanctions for employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants; and we must not reward those who broke our laws by providing them with amnesty. I also support elimination of the diversity lottery. In the days ahead, I look forward to working with the president to solve the urgent issues related to reform of and enforcement within our current immigration system.
More on Immigration
Even though the U.S. House of Representatives was not in session, I kept a busy schedule during the extended work period. Throughout the last six weeks, I spent a great deal of time in Oklahoma hearing directly from constituents, local community leaders and small business owners at town halls and other meetings. In addition to these valuable conversations with fellow Oklahomans, I participated in two insightful learning trips with some of my colleagues in Congress.