Political Quotes

“I thank the gentleman from Texas. As he indicated, the time is now for us to move forward--to find common ground and to figure out how we can advance this issue in a manner that respects the security concerns that have been articulated but which also recognizes that, 6 years ago, several benchmarks were set forth for security measures to be reached in order for comprehensive immigration reform and a pathway towards citizenship to be created. Six years ago, there was a call for at least 20,000 border protection agents. Right now, there are 21,400 border protection agents. Six years ago, there was a call for a fence to be constructed along the southern border of approximately 670 miles, although our border security folks have said they believe a fence would be adequate that is 652 miles, 651 miles of which have already been constructed. There was a call for video surveillance assets--these are cameras and radar--deployed along the borders of this country. Six years ago, the call was for 105 such video surveillance assets. Mr. Speaker, right now, there are more than 250 deployed in the United States of America. We have met or exceeded the security benchmarks that have been set. That's why it is time for us to move forward with comprehensive immigration reform. We have also been joined by another distinguished colleague of ours, the gentleman from Newark, New Jersey (Mr. Payne), and I recognize him at this time.”