On the recordDecember 9, 2010
For the past three Congresses, I've been an enthusiastic cosponsor of the DREAM Act, which I see as an essential component of comprehensive immigration reform. No child raised in America should be permanently penalized for the immigration status of their parents. The DREAM Act gives young people a chance to contribute to the United States, often the only country they know. I've heard from many high school students in my district who have done everything right, but discover when they apply to college that they are not a citizen, that the doors of education and a better life they have worked for so hard are closed to them. The U.S. has a proud tradition of welcoming immigrants who want to work hard and play by the rules and build a better life for themselves and their families. The DREAM Act comes from that tradition. It will make our economy, military, and Nation stronger. Yesterday evening I was proud to cast an 'aye' vote on the rule to bring the DREAM Act to the floor. I was not on the floor later that night and missed the final vote on the act. Had I been present, I would have enthusiastically voted 'aye,' and I urge my Senate colleagues to take up the legislation in the remaining days of the 111th Congress.
