Arlen Specter: “the issue of border security is obviously a vital matter. The assurances that we will be able to check the flow of…”

“the issue of border security is obviously a vital matter. The assurances that we will be able to check the flow of illegal immigrants will materially aid in the passage of this bill, a comprehensive bill--if assurances can be given that the border is secure and also with employer sanctions. I think the Senator from Alabama has submitted a good amendment. It does not have the overtone of the enormous fence along the entire border, stretching 2,000 miles. It is targeted. We have been advised by the administration, by Secretary Chertoff, that there is support for the amendment of the Senator from Alabama. That is about what they are looking for. They have made a detailed analysis. Secretary Chertoff met with the Judiciary Committee on a very extensive briefing 2 weeks ago. We talked about this at length. For those reasons, I plan to support the Sessions amendment. Madam President, I am prepared to yield back all time if Senator Sessions and Senator Kennedy are prepared. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there objection?”