Statement on Refugee Executive Order
ONTARIO, CA – Today, Rep. Norma J. Torres (D-CA) issued the following statement in response to Donald Trump's latest executive actions drastically limiting the admittance of refugees:
"Donald Trump's Executive Order on refugees is more reckless fear-mongering that has no basis in reality. Refugees already undergo a long, rigorous screening process that often takes years. While we should work to continuously monitor and improve that process, there is no reason to bring it to a crashing halt or to enact a blanket ban on those coming from certain Muslim-majority countries.
"Having spoken to many refugee families in my district, I know that they are no different from me and my family. We all are looking to provide a future for our loved ones and contribute to this great country. Closing America's doors to those fleeing unimaginable hardships is an affront to our values as a nation, and targeting people based on their faith is downright un-American. Throughout our history, our nation has been a beacon of hope and freedom. Today's actions go against those very ideals and will ultimately erode the moral leadership of the United States across the globe."
Torres represents California's 35th congressional district and is a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade.