Dick Durbin: “If this became the only avenue for legalization, it really, I think, runs afoul or in the face of that whole concept of…”

You can’t survive in politics unless you’re optimistic. You’ve got to believe that even though you face a setback or you don’t have all the laws you need, that tomorrow will be better.

The lack of community involvement and speed with which this project has moved forward raises questions about the role of private interests.

To leave here without this being a law finalized to protect these young people … is painful, really painful. I don’t want them to feel like I’m abandoning them.

We ask that you immediately provide all committee records that you have withheld, commit to fully complying with Senate Rules XXVI and XXVII going forward, and apologize to Mr. Smith on behalf of the Committee.