Issue Position: Immigration

Issue Position

Sharing more than 1,000 miles of border with Mexico, home to a culturally-diverse population, and one of the fastest growing economies in the nation, Texas is uniquely situated in the debate over how best to reform our nation's immigration system. Texas is characterized by an entrepreneurial spirit unlike any other, welcoming to folks who are looking to start a business and work hard so they can provide for a better life for their families.

Senator Cornyn believes the immigration debate is about the values that we hold dearest as Texans and as Americans. That includes respect for the rule of law, and Senator Cornyn believes the first step in reforming our broken immigration system is securing our porous border with Mexico. The Department of Homeland Security estimates it apprehends only half of those crossing the border illegally, and other estimates indicate that the reality is far less. Operational border security must be a part of any immigration reform.

But while immigration reform begins at the border, it does not end there. Forty percent of those here illegally first arrived with a lawful visa but never left when it expired. Senator Cornyn believes a biometric entry-exit system should be implemented, and Texas employers must have a rock-solid way of verifying the status of workers they hire. He believes we must expand the number of visas we provide to include both those with advanced degrees in STEM-related fields, as well those working in labor-intensive industries like construction. And finally Senator Cornyn believes we must find a compassionate solution to deal with the more than 11 million people living here illegally, while still respecting the rule of law.

Senator Cornyn has sponsored several key immigration reform bills during his time on the Judiciary Committee and will continue to play a leading role in the conversation on how best to reform our immigration laws. Above all else, Senator Cornyn wants to ensure immigration reform is done right and the mistakes of the past are not repeated.

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