Political Quotes

“ICE continually overspends on detention and doesn't face any consequences. Not only are they holding on to more people than ever before, they are doing so when there are alternatives to detention that have proven to be reliable and effective. On average, it has cost $130 for ICE to detain an adult a day. One person in family detention costs $319 a day. Alternatives to detention cost less than $20 a day, and that includes services to help them understand our immigration system and show up for court hearings. I would note that Congress recently appropriated more money for ICE to use these alternatives to detention for migrants who do not pose a threat or have criminal backgrounds. ICE needs to operate responsibly, and that includes following a budget. The Trump administration cannot be allowed to turn to the Department of Defense every time it has a new demand. Madam Chair, I urge my colleagues to support my amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.”