REP. KING’S EXTREMIST RHETORIC

Washington D.C.: Today, Chairman Charles A. Gonzalez released the following statements to express his strong opposition to comments by Congressman Steve King (R-IA), which likened his ideal immigration policy to the way a family picks a ‘good bird dog.’

“Rep. Steve King’s statements, which compare immigrants to dogs, are offensive and dehumanizing. Sadly, these and similar comments from some Republican leaders are not uncommon.

“Our country needs reform that can only be achieved with a bipartisan effort. Comments like those made by Mr. King set back our nation and set back legislators who are seriously working toward real, bipartisan solutions.

“Clearly, there are fringe elements within the Republican Party that support ethnic profiling such as SB 1070 and that feel compelled to spout out ignorant and extremist rhetoric. But the most pressing question is this: when will responsible, reasonable Republicans speak up on immigration? I am urging Republican leaders, including Governor Romney and Speaker Boehner, to condemn this behavior and ask members in their party to act responsibly

“Democrats and the CHC have always stood ready to work with our colleagues in the Republican Party to bring about real reform. Hopefully, we will not be waiting too much longer.”