Political Quotes

“I urge my colleagues to oppose H.R. 35. Let's call this bill what it is: fear-mongering dressed up as officer safety. This bill echoes one of the darkest chapters in our Nation's history, the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. Just like that shameful law, H.R. 35 forces local authorities and encourages the deputizing of randos to do the Federal Government's work, punishing them if they refuse. Back then, it was hunting down people who dared to seek freedom. Today, it is forcing local police to become Federal enforcers, which is a violation of States' rights. This bill is duplicative of existing law. It threatens members of our community who are here legally and lacks the surgical precision needed for solid immigration policy. We need to start focusing on real solutions for the border. I support law enforcement. I support public safety, but I oppose the Federal Government overreach that erodes local control and threatens civil rights. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to continue seeking comprehensive immigration policy reform and to vote ``no'' on H.R. 35. Mr. McCLINTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. De La Cruz). Ms. De La CRUZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 35, the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act, which I am proud to have co-led with Congressman Ciscomani.…”