Congressman Sam Farr released the following statement following President Obama’s speech Thursday on immigration:
“Congressional Republicans’ unwillingness to govern has left the President no choice but to act. Our immigration system is broken; weakening our economy, threatening our national security and tearing families apart. Afraid of upsetting the intolerant Tea Party, House Republicans have ignored their responsibilities by refusing to take up the bipartisan bill passed by the Senate almost two years ago. I joined with my Democratic colleagues to try to force a vote but we could not convince enough Republicans to join us.
“The President said tonight that the American people will no longer tolerate inaction from Washington. His plan is both reasonable and legal. It shifts our resources towards increased security by strengthening our borders and prioritizing the deportation of violent criminals and felons. It also demonstrates our true national values by keeping families together.
“There is still more work to be done. This plan is a good first step but it does not fully address all of our immigration problems. It does not go far enough to protect our local economy by ensuring that the agriculture industry has access to a stable workforce. However, the President’s announcement will force Congress to finally address our broken immigration system. The President and the American people will no longer let Republicans duck the issue. Inaction, more grid-lock or another government shutdown are not the answer. A vote now on the Senate’s bipartisan bill is the only responsible thing to do.”
