Hirono, Chu Statement Opposing GOP-Proposed Immigration Policies

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) and Representative Judy Chu (D-CA), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), released the following statement opposing draconian immigration policy changes being considered as part of a supplemental national security aid package:

“We are deeply alarmed by the latest reports on Republican demands for permanent anti-immigrant policies in exchange for temporary funding for Ukraine. In addition to demanding sweeping changes to our asylum system that will fail to improve conditions at the border and result in vulnerable people being sent back to danger, Republicans are demanding a more expansive return to Trump-era programs with nationwide Expedited Removal. This will terrorize undocumented communities throughout the country and could lead to the deportation of people who have been in the United States for years—all without the basic due-process protection of even seeing an immigration judge.

“Asylum seekers fleeing political oppression or religious persecution, including an increasing number of individuals from Asian countries arriving at our Southern Border, deserve a fair chance at asylum in the United States. In addition to the grave human consequences, turning away individuals fleeing oppressive regimes will also send a dangerous message to autocratic governments everywhere that the United States has abdicated its leadership on defending human rights, opening the door for them to abandon their international obligations as well. 

“Our immigration system is badly broken, and the supplemental package contains critical funding priorities. But pitting vulnerable groups against each other is a recipe for bad policymaking. While we stand ready to work with anyone on comprehensive immigration reform, the latest Republican proposal should be rejected outright.”

###