I believe firm action must be taken to prevent individuals from evading our laws and entering our country illegally. It is estimated that more than 12 million immigrants are living illegally in the U.S., and this number will continue to rise unless we bolster security along our borders and ports of entry. I have been outspoken in my support for efforts to eliminate a widely-abused visa program, hold employers accountable for failing to verify the immigration status of their employees, deport dangerous gang members, and increase the criminal penalties for those who devise schemes aimed at infiltrating our borders.

In addition, I believe we need a comprehensive approach to address this issue – one that includes better enforcement of the laws currently on the books. I have voted to permanently establish the 9/11 Commission to monitor and evaluate anti-terrorism measures, particularly along our borders. I have also voted to provide more funding for Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to establish 24-hour operational control of and coverage at all of our borders and ports, and to end “catch and release” programs by expanding detention facilities at the borders. These measures would allow the government to promptly send illegal immigrants back to their home country – rather than being released into the community to await deportation.

I will work to ensure that future reforms to the immigration system will protect U.S. borders, respect our rule of law, prevent illegal immigration, and combat terrorism.