Gallego Statement on President’s Visit to Texas, Current Situation on Southern Border

Washington – U.S. Representative Pete P. Gallego (D-Alpine) released the following statement today as the President heads to Texas:

“The President’s presence along the border would create an unneeded distraction by diverting law enforcement and other resources at a critical time. We don’t need photo ops, we need action. The ball is in Congress’ court to do this right.

“About 41 percent of the U.S.-Mexico border is in the 23rd District of Texas. Border commerce and security are personal to me because I call the border home.

“Congress has a poor track record when it comes to putting sound policy over partisan rhetoric. A bipartisan border security bill has been waiting for floor action since May of 2013. Rather than pointing fingers and issuing blame, Congress must get appropriate infrastructure and resources to the border in order to enforce our immigration law.

“Our federal agencies are being stretched thin. Our law enforcement agencies are doing what they can. Congress must now do its job. I’m willing to work with anyone and everyone who wants to resolve this issue. And, the additional resources for the border region are a huge part of that.

“The law is hard, but it’s still the law. Unless and until it is changed, it must be followed. As we follow the law, we must treat all individuals, especially children, with dignity and respect.”

For more information on U.S. Rep. Gallego, visit www.gallego.house.gov. Learn more about U.S. Rep. Gallego by liking his Facebook page or follow him on Twitter.

U.S. Representative Pete P. Gallego, D-Alpine, represents the 23rd District of Texas, which includes all or parts of 29 counties in southwest Texas, stretching from San Antonio to El Paso. He serves on the House Armed Services and House Agriculture Committees.