Hello folks, The Senate has been debating various aspects of immigration this week to strengthen border security and reform our nation's immigration policy. I thought I would take this opportunity to let you know what's really been going on, and where Republicans and Democrats stand on these critical issues. When given the opportunity to vote for true border security--including 370 miles of triple-layered fencing and 500 miles of vehicle barriers along our border with Mexico--15 Democrats voted against the proposal. But, ALL 55 Republicans voted for it. Two vulnerable Democrats who voted against this proposal--Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Bob Menendez (D-NJ)--are facing challenges from Republicans with strong stances on immigration: Mike McGavick in Washington and Tom Kean, Jr. in New Jersey. I don't think the voters in those states will be happy to learn that their representatives in Congress have put our security and economy at risk by refusing to support border security measures. When given an opportunity to make English the national language, many Democrats also balked--including Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), and Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), who we also feel is very vulnerable. The amendment that would do so, sponsored by Senator Inhofe (R-Oklahoma), which passed 63-34, will not only honor our traditions and history, but also help to ensure that future generations of Americans are united by a single, common language. Please visit the websites of Mike McGavick, Tom Kean, and the Michigan GOP to learn how you can help make sure they have the resources to overcome the distorted message coming from the Democrats on this important issue. Unfortunately, not everyone in the Senate--including the Democrat Leader, Senator Harry Reid (D-NV)--saw it that way. In fact, Senator Reid demostrated Beltway Democrats' extreme position on the immigration issue when he declared: "I really believe this amendment is racist." I was amazed that the leader of the Senate Democrats would actually say such a thing. Harry Reid owes the American people an apology for such an outrageous statement. I have been disappointed by the votes, rhetoric, and behavior of many Democrats during this week's debate. Sometimes it just seems like their priorities are different from most Americans'. As we continue to debate immigration reform and how to make sure that our borders are secure, I'll be sure to keep you posted on our progress. Thanks very much for your support. Sincerely, |