On the recordNovember 19, 2015
This is a long list of the vetting process that desperate refugees who happen to come from camps in Jordan and Lebanon--and who happen to be Syrian--go through. It is more than 21. In fact, the last one says: Prior to entry to the United States, applicants are subject to screening again from the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. Applicants undergo, in No. 20, a second interagency security check. That is after 19 other security checks. I want to thank Lutheran Services, Catholic Charities, and Interfaith Ministries for recognizing the importance of the face of America to be a refuge for those who are worn and desperate. I want to join my colleagues to say that we all have a responsibility for national security. I hope the Senate will engage in vigorous debate, that the President will announce to the world that we are fighting ISIS. We are joining allies and taking it to the fight, but we must do other things besides denying and stopping innocent refugees from coming in, a small, small number: Secure our airports; ensure that the back side of the airport is secure; make sure that no foreign fighter is able to come into the United States, and I have introduced legislation for this. We are not for not protecting. We are for protecting, but we must do it in a way that America has been able to stand up and be respectful or recognizing, of course, all of those who come and struggle. Mr. Speaker, Happy Thanksgiving.…
