Gutierrez: Bipartisan Budget Deal Raises Hopes for Immigration Reform in 2014

Statement

This afternoon, Rep. Luis V. Gutiérrez (D-IL) voted for the bipartisan budget deal worked out between Sen. Patty Murray and Rep. Paul Ryan. The following is a statement from Rep. Gutiérrez:

"I voted for the budget deal because it renews my faith in bipartisanship and in getting things done on difficult policy issues, even though there are aspects of the deal that I do not like. But that is the nature of compromise and the deal keeps us moving forward and allows the Congress to focus on other important issues like the economy, immigration reform, health care and gun-violence.

"The two Houses of Congress and the two parties can work out immigration reform in 2014 in a similar manner. It takes commitment from the leaders in both parties and it takes hard work and the willingness to compromise. I think Speaker Boehner and Leader Pelosi should appoint a team to lead the effort to get immigration reform across the finish line.

"I am still optimistic about the prospects for immigration reform in 2014 because immigration reform is easier than the budget. There is much more consensus among voters and among Members of Congress in both parties. My informal talks with Republicans are encouraging because there is a critical mass that wants to reach a compromise. And among Democrats, there is more unity than ever before behind reform.

"It will still not be easy, but the polls, the policy, and the political winds all point towards action in 2014. We need to see the same level of commitment from House and Senate Leadership, the White House, and the continued push of the American people to move us to action and compromise on immigration reform. The budget deal gives me a sense of hope that compromise and progress are still possible in Washington."

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