U.S. Congressman Scott DesJarlais

Representing the 4th District of Tennessee

DesJarlais Statement on President Obama’s Immigration Announcement

Nov 21, 2014
Press Release

Congressman Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) released the following statement in response to President Obama’s announcement on immigration:

“President Obama’s decision to act unilaterally on immigration shows a blatant disregard for the constitutional checks and balances upon which our government was founded and sets a troubling precedent for the use of executive power.  Congress has the sole authority to create and amend laws, with the president’s duty being to faithfully execute those laws. Although he might wish otherwise, the Constitution does not give President Obama the authority to circumvent Congress simply because existing immigration laws conflict with his particular ideology. My colleagues and I will be reviewing all available options afforded to Congress to prevent this usurpation of power and preserve our rule of law.”