On the recordJanuary 30, 2017
I will speak and then make my two motions, and then the Senator from Arkansas can speak and either object or not, whatever he decides. Mr. President, earlier I spoke at length on the President's Executive order. I just want to repeat that this Executive order has made us less safe, less secure, put our troops in the field at increased risk, and was implemented in a way that has caused chaos and confusion across the country. Most fundamentally of all, it is un-American. It flies in the face of a grand American tradition of granting refuge to those fleeing persecution, regardless of their race, religion, or political views. It is dangerous. It is shameful. It is wrong. It must be reversed immediately. And I know that many of my colleagues agree with me. They know this is wrong. A dozen Republican Senators and counting, including my good friend, the senior Senator from Arizona, have expressed serious concern. One former Republican CIA Director said that it ``makes us less safe than we were on Friday.'' So let's repeal the order and then sit down to discuss a smart, thoughtful, effective way to counter terrorism. President Obama wanted tougher vetting. Democrats are happy to look at proposals to that effect but not this ineffective, un-American policy that will do more to empower our enemies and inspire those around the globe who would do us harm. Now I am going to make a second unanimous consent request, and I will do them seriatim, as the UC allowed.…
