WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. President Joe Biden announced new measures to secure the U.S.'s Southern border on June 4. There new Executive Order bars migrants who cross unlawfully from receiving asylum.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued the following statement after Biden's announcement:
“As a border state governor and former chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, I’m encouraged by President Biden’s plan to rein in illegal border crossings and help our nation's immigration officers manage this challenge," she said. In New Mexico, I’ve long emphasized the need for more border agents to help crack down on drug and human trafficking. While only Congress can provide those resources, the President’s plan maximizes the resources that are available for border security, strategically deploying border patrol agents where they're needed most."
She's also applauded Biden's plan for the Southern border because it does not separate children from their guardians.
At the same time, this plan maintains an approach that’s true to our American values. This administration will not separate children from their families or discriminate based on religion as occurred during the Trump administration.
Lujan Grisham also mentioned proposed legislation related to the border that Congress didn't pass.
"President Biden and I agree that the most effective way to secure our border is through comprehensive congressional action, which Republicans have repeatedly blocked," she said. "Proposed legislation they rejected included adding thousands of Border Patrol agents, investing in anti-fentanyl technology, increasing asylum officers and immigration judges, and expanding lawful migration pathways."
Finally, Lujan Grisham thanked Biden.
"I thank President Biden for listening to my concerns, and for his commitment to the job of securing our border. It's time for Republicans in Congress to do theirs," she said.
