CHC Chair Barragán on Reports that White House May Restrict Asylum Seekers

Washington, DC -- Today, Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Chair Nanette Barragán (CA-44) released the following statement in response to multiple reports that the White House is considering Executive Actions to restrict migrants who seek asylum at the Southern Border: 

“We understand how frustrating it is that Republicans in Congress continue to block any funding requested by President Biden to address the Southern Border.  But it is unbelievable to hear that the White House would consider Executive Actions to prevent or restrict migrants from seeking asylum at our Southern Border and possibly use some of the same methods as former President Trump. Migrants have a legal right to seek asylum when they arrive at our border. Asylum has provided refuge for families, women, and children, and other vulnerable populations since World War II.  

CHC opposes unilateral attempts by the White House to change our asylum system and put human lives at risk. Many of the changes reportedly being discussed would do little to reduce the stress or number of migrants that continue to arrive at our Southern Border. Enforcement-only policies do not work. And using immigrant communities as a political pawn is wrong.

CHC has not been briefed or consulted on any Executive Actions being considered by the Administration. However, we remain ready to work with the Administration and any member of Congress, regardless of political affiliation, to fix our immigration system and provide the resources necessary for an orderly process at our Southern Border with real common-sense solutions, not just punitive actions.” 

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