Email campaign brings quick response from Congressman
Thought you might like to see this feedback I got.The following letter was in response to the one I sent off from your [U.S. Border Control website] site the other day.
This was a reply from Democrat Congressman Charles Stenholm, sent within 48 hours of receipt of my letter. I haven't heard a word from the two useless Republican Senators and probably never will.
Dear Mr. Xxxxxxxx
I appreciate your recent correspondence to me regarding immigration issues. Knowing your views is important to me, and I value having this opportunity to respond to you.
I understand your frustration with the current problems facing our immigration system. Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, we have faced the need to improve our immigration system. Since the attacks, I have been considering this issue and have become more firmly convinced that changes to our immigration system must be centered on the security of the United States.
We know that the problems with our immigration system will not be solved overnight, and that there is a delicate balance between the integrity of our security and the integrity of our national identity as the symbol of freedom.
I believe that our current immigration system needs much repair, especially with regards to the immigration situation faced by the southwestern Border States. You may have heard some immigration proposals that advocate amnesty for illegal immigrants living in our country.
I am firmly against amnesty because I do not believe that people should be rewarded for breaking our laws and entering the country illegally. Furthermore, in the past, I have supported legislation which would place a moratorium on immigration by aliens other than refugees, priority workers, and the spouses and children of United States citizens.
Additionally, I have supported legislation that would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to deny citizenship at birth to children born in the United States of parents who are not citizens or permanent resident aliens.
I have voted against expanding immigration not because I am opposed to immigrants coming to America seeking a better life, but because I oppose increasing immigration levels until we control the massive inflow of illegal aliens which are putting a tremendous strain on Texas and other border states.
Many Americans, including myself, are descendants of recent immigrants to the United States. Most legal immigrants come here in search of a better way of life because they share our belief in freedom and opportunity.
The diversity they bring to this country shows the world that the values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are universal and have worth in all cultures.
Those who legally obtain citizenship in the United States deserve our respect and welcome as fellow Americans. You may be assured that I will weigh very carefully each opportunity to enhance the security of our country.
As immigration-related legislation is brought before the House of Representatives for a vote, you may be assured that I will weigh both the security requirements of the United States and the needs of agriculture in the 17th District.
Again, thank you for contacting me.
For further information my views, legislation, and media activity, visit my homepage at www.house.gov/stenholm.
With kind regards, I remain
Sincerely yours,
Charles W. Stenholm Member of Congress