On the recordJune 27, 2013
before beginning my remarks, I would first like to thank my friend and colleague, the distinguished Senator from Iowa, for his tireless efforts in managing this process from the Republican side. It has not been easy, and his effort has reflected a certain level of statesmanship that is to be commended. I rise today in support of immigration reform. I support strengthening our borders and ensuring that they are secure before beginning a pathway to citizenship because it is the only way we can avoid the mistakes of the past. I support robust interior enforcement and a biometric visa tracking system because without those things in place, we will not solve the problem of illegal immigration. I support modernizing and streamlining our visa system because we need an efficient process of legal immigration that meets the needs of our economy. I support immigration reform that is tough on those who have chosen to break our laws and fair to those who have obeyed them and have been patiently waiting their turn in line trying to come here legally. Today there is reason for disappointment, but there is also great cause for encouragement. The bill we have before us is an enormous disappointment. The American people deserve better. As a matter of public policy, this bill fails to meet many of the goals we set at the beginning of the process. It is full of promises to beef up border security, but it makes no assurances.…





