Issue Position: Border Security and Immigration

Issue Position

Border security and immigration issues have dominated debate in Washington, D.C. and the country alike. This is one of the most important issues facing Texans right now, and I have been a strong advocate for an "enforcement first" approach.

While I agree that the entire immigration system in our country should be overhauled in the near future, successful immigration policy begins by securing our nation's border. I have visited the border several times in the past years, and I can assure you that we have a serious crisis on the Texas border. Many estimate that up to one thousand illegal immigrants are crossing the U.S./Mexico border every night. Stopping this tidal wave of illegal immigrants must be our first priority. While many come to America for opportunity and a better quality of life, others take advantage of our open borders to peddle drugs, weapons and people. We must know who is entering and exiting our country.

I support the combination of a virtual fence along with an actual fence along the border. In less populated areas, unmanned drones, sensors and surveillance cameras could prove to be effective tools in monitoring the border. In many areas a physical fence would help border patrol agents by slowing down the flow of illegal immigrants crossing the border.

Once we gain control of the border, I believe we must implement an accountable and effective temporary worker program to allow employers to hire workers to meet demand and grow our economy. Many immigrants perform a role in our economy and, likewise, many businesses count on their participation. This system should have a high threshold of accountability and require that immigrants be employed if they wish to remain in the United States. Previous criminal convictions, or convictions while working in the U.S., should stop them from participating in the system.

As Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, which provides funding for Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, I will continue to push for increased funds to ensure that border security and immigration initiatives receive the support they deserve.

I have heard the concerns of constituents throughout the District regarding immigration and border security. I remain committed to keeping our borders secure and Americans safe. I have also discussed this issue with members of my Hispanic Advisory Council, and many of them agree we need to fix the crisis on the Texas border.

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