Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 1, 2014


Washington, DC – Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards spoke today on the House Floor about the House Republicans’ supplemental bill to address the humanitarian crisis on the southern border.

“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a sad day for the United States when Republicans in this Congress see a problem and then choose not to work with Democrats to solve the problem. And that’s exactly what’s happened here today: their Draconian way, or the high way. And let’s be clear about what the problem is: unaccompanied minor children, frightened, some fleeing violence, needing protection, and deserving due process.

“The solution to this problem is as much about who these children are as it is about who we are. As a mother and a legislator, I know that we should be compelled to act as a matter of humanity, but also as a matter of law. We know we have problems on the border that are in need of solutions. Republicans have rejected one solution – comprehensive immigration reform – to address the problem. They’ve rejected another solution – the request of the president for a supplemental appropriation that includes resources for judges, representation and services for minor children, and assistance to the countries of origin.

“Now today, in the eleventh hour, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle demonstrate, once again, their lack of humanity and failure to solve yet another problem for the American people. And with that I yield my time.”

A video recording of the Congresswoman’s statement can be found here.

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