On the recordJuly 24, 2017
Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the House appropriations package that will provide $1.6 billion for the construction of President Trump's border wall. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have heard from many military leaders who all agree, a wall won't make our borders more secure or our Nation safer. There are more effective ways and technology that would be a better investment of our limited resources. Moreover, the President has failed to provide a cost for this wall, and it would be irresponsible for Congress to write him a blank check, especially after he promised over and over that the American taxpayers would not foot the bill. This wall only serves as a symbol of xenophobia and hate, while doing nothing to address our broken immigration system. Immigrants strengthen the fabric of our Nation, they serve in our military, they teach in our schools, and some, like myself, are fortunate enough to serve as Members of Congress. ____________________





