May 10, 2023

Chairman Aguilar: House Democrats are ready to deliver real immigration reform, border security

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar joined Representative Linda Sanchez, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, DPCC Co-Chair Veronica Escobar, CHC Chair Nanette Barragán, CAPAC Chair Judy Chu and CBC First Vice Chair Yvette D. Clarke in announcing the introduction of the U.S. Citizenship Act of 2023.

CHAIRMAN AGUILAR: Thank you, Mr. Leader. Thank you so much for that, and I want to thank Congresswoman Linda Sanchez for bringing us all together for an important cause.

We’re here to send the very clear message that House Democrats are ready – and have been ready – to invest in a secure border and to deliver real immigration reform. What Republicans are bringing onto the floor this week is not substantive—it's extreme and recycles the same failed policies from the prior Administration that did nothing to help our situation at the southern border. And as the Leader often mentions, they are ‘Team Extreme’, and we are ‘Team Normal, Team Get Stuff Done, Team Help Our Country and Team Immigration Reform.’ Just like the American people, Democrats want a safe and orderly border and a fair immigration system that treats immigrant families and children with the dignity and respect that they deserve.  

That’s why we are so proud to re-introduce the U.S. Citizenship Act to build off our investments in safety and personnel at the border, open more lawful pathways for citizenship and address the root causes of migration. Our legislation would strengthen our labor market and add stability to the economy. This is the best path forward to deliver true, comprehensive immigration reform.

I only hope that our colleagues on the other side of the aisle come to their senses and join us at the negotiating table. Thank you.

Video of the full press conference and Q&A can be viewed here.