WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today issued this statement on the state of immigration reform in light of members of migrant caravans attempting to rush the southern border. 

“I have worked for over a decade to fix our nation’s broken immigration system.

“We will not have the necessary ‘buy-in’ from the American people for a solution dealing with illegal immigrants already in the United States if we cannot convince the public we have the ability to stop future waves of illegal immigration.

“The current chaos at our southern border must be dealt with properly or we will never find a solution to our broken immigration system.

“Everyone who supports dealing fairly with illegal immigrants already in the United States should make it clear the lawless behavior occurring at the southern border crossing will not be tolerated.

“Americans want an immigration policy which we control, not one where illegal immigrants control us.

“We are a nation of immigrants.  We are also a kind and generous people.  But Americans will not be played for fools.

“It’s simple: We as Americans – have the right to decide who gets to come into our country, not immigrants seeking to force their way in.

“I have worked with many Democrats who have compassion for illegal immigrants already in the United States.  In order to solve this problem, now is the time for Democrats to be clear that they too oppose the lawless behavior from illegal immigrants at the border.  They can also offer their strong support for additional efforts to secure our border today and in the future.

“Showing the American people we will take a tough line on future waves of illegal immigration helps build the necessary political support to deal fairly with the problems created in the past.

“It remains the pathway forward and Americans are watching how we handle this current test.”

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