On the recordAugust 10, 2010
I am very glad that Democrats are doing the responsible thing, and we know we need to be doing more. This is an important step because it substitutes for some of the misguided legislative initiatives that States are promoting, such as Arizona and Texas. I know there is a sense of desperation, but we on this side of the border have to ensure and have to be able to move forward on border security, and as well for those of us who are arguing vigorously for the comprehensive approach, addressing the needs of so many who are here simply wanting to work. We have to look to both directions. So I am rising to support this bill and this legislation, recognizing that there are people who are crying their heart out, saying when is this Congress going to do comprehensive immigration reform? But just as we have to clean this up, we've got a problem in those on the other side of the aisle not recognizing that we have to do this as a total package. But the Border Patrol agents funding, the CBP funding, $68 million to hire 250 new Customs and Border Protection personnel is important. The tactical communications is important. For those of us who live on the border, who have been to the border, who know border areas, we understand that the value of this is also to save lives, save the many people who are coming here for work but are dying in the desert, children, women who are coming here--yes, out of desperation, but still they are coming and dying in these deserts.
