Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto (D-32) is attacking President Donald Trump (R) for moving forward with the construction of a Mexican border wall, calling the initiative “un-American.”
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Implementing policies that reverse our nation’s great long-standing tradition of embracing the world’s most vulnerable people is un-American. America is built on immigrants,” Prieto, who immigrated to New Jersey from Cuba when he was 11, said in a statement.
“The huddled masses yearning to breathe free have helped make America the place where people of all backgrounds and creeds can pursue life, liberty and happiness. It is not a place of unrealistic walls. It is not a place where we turn our backs on the world’s most vulnerable people.”
Adding that “refugees seeking freedom are not threats,” Prieto’s remarks come in light of the news that Trump will order the construction of Mexican border wall (h/t The New York Times) – one of his resonating campaign points.
Trump justified the move by saying it was necessary to gain control of illegal immigrants coming into the United States, also insisting Mexico would pay for the wall.
“I know this better than most. I’ve lived under a heartless and murderous regime that hated liberty. I know what it’s like to escape that reality and find freedom. I don’t want that opportunity ever denied to anyone in need,” Prieto continued.
“President Trump scored cheap political points on the campaign trail by targeting immigrants. It was horrifying. It’s even worse to see him put his un-American plans into action.”
Prieto concluded by stating that “all people of goodwill” should stand up to Trump and remind him of this country’s tradition of welcoming immigrants.
Big day planned on NATIONAL SECURITY tomorrow. Among many other things, we will build the wall!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 25, 2017