WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released the following statement after President Trump declared a national emergency to redirect funds for a border wall:
“Securing our Northern and Southern borders is critical, but there is no one-size-fits-all approach. I supported the bipartisan border security funding bill that Congress passed yesterday because it prioritized investments in the right combination of personnel, technology and barriers that border security professionals have said will help them protect our country. A border wall is not the most effective way to stop illegal drugs, keep our country safe and ensure the efficient flow of international trade.
“The President’s decision undermines our Constitution’s checks and balances by diverting funds Congress dedicated to other vital programs, including funding for our military. In the past, national emergencies have been invoked during the most immediate and dire threats to our homeland – like September 11th – and it should not be used to fulfill a campaign promise.”
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