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Panetta Statement on President Trump’s Anti-Immigrant Executive Orders

January 25, 2017

SALINAS – Today, Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.) released the following statement regarding President Donald Trump's anti-immigrant executive orders.

"As the grandson of immigrants who realized the American dream of freedom, prosperity, and equality, I am extremely disappointed by President Trump's decision today to sign anti-immigrant executive orders. Instead of offering a comprehensive plan for immigration reform, which I strongly support, the President's orders seek to tear families apart, negatively affect members of our community, and threaten our nation's delicate relationship with Mexico, an economic and diplomatic ally.

"I firmly believe that diversity within our country must be valued, not belittled. President Trump's orders do not reflect our Central Coast values of inclusivity, equality, and striving for the American dream, and now thousands of hardworking immigrants in our communities may bear the brunt of this destructive policy. I will continue to advocate for bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform, champion the current protections afforded to DREAMers in our community, and oppose any efforts to repeal DACA."

Issues:Immigration