Immigration

Reforming immigration policies to keep our country moving forward.

America is a nation built by immigrants, and I honor and respect that history.

I believe our immigration policy must also honor our respect for the rule of law.  Our immigration policy must not penalize immigrants who have followed the rules by allowing others to "cut in line."

Immigration and border security are two separate issues: immigration is a legal process by which foreign nationals come to the U.S. for travel, work, education, or to live.  Border security is how we deal with those trying to enter our country illegally. Border security is a national security issue, not necessarily an immigration issue.

As a border state, Texas is frequently confronted with challenges stemming from our border. I support strong policies that put border security first, make it tougher to obtain and use false identification documents, and take common sense steps to prevent terrorists and drug cartels from operating inside America.

I understand that some industries, including agriculture, rely on migrant workers.  I believe a temporary guest worker program must include a viable worker identification system that allows employers to easily verify a worker’s immigration status.  Guest worker programs should only be used when Americans cannot be found to fill a job and must be efficient for employers and workers in order to increase compliance. 

Lastly, I want reform to our current lottery policy.  We should be recruiting the best and brightest minds to contribute to our nation's future.