On Thursday evening, November 21, 2014 President Barack Obama used his executive power to order an overhaul of the immigration system in the United States.
“Today our immigration system is broken and everybody knows it,” Obama said. “It’s been this way for decades and for decades we haven’t done much about it.”
He explained the changes he was making to immigration laws, without Congress’ consent.
The changes will offer those who qualify the chance to stay temporarily in the country for three years, as long as they pass background checks and pay back taxes. But they will not be offered a path to eventual citizenship or be eligible for federal benefits or health care programs.
All the QC’s local politicians seemed to agree the immigration system is “broken.”
“President Obama today took a necessary first step in fixing our broken immigration system,” said Illinois Governor Pat Quinn. “His plan will give hope to families who live in constant fear of separation.
Quinn went on to say that hardworking immigrants were the ones who built the country and he commends the president for “showing compassion and understanding” to people in this situation.
Further, he said Congress needs to follow Obama’s lead a pass immigration reform.
Illinois Congresswoman Cheri Bustos said the system should crack down on employers who hire undocumented workers and secure the border.
“While I hope that today’s action by the President will spur further needed reform, I believe firmly that Congress needs to lead on this important issue.”
Congressman Dave Loebsack agreed that the system is in need of reform.
“I have concerns about the President acting without Congressional approval and would have preferred that Congress address this issue,” Loebsack said. “But it has become increasingly clear that the extreme Tea Party faction will not allow any vote on immigration legislation.”
He further said he hopes the House will act on legislation that secures borders, enforces laws and ensures accountability for illegal immigrants. All without tearing families apart who have been here for many years.
Congressman Bill Foster said he was “pleased that the President is taking action to improve our immigration system and provide temporary relief for some families.”
Senator Dick Durbin said the action will make the country safer by bringing illegal immigrants forward to register with the government.
“Doing nothing to reform our broken immigration system – which is what the House Republican leadership have done – is amnesty. What the president is calling for is accountability. That to me is smart and humane. That to me is what America is all about”