U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander released the following statement on Wednesday’s Senate vote to begin debate on the American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act:
“Today, I voted to begin debate on legislation that expands background investigations on Iraqi and Syrian refugees hoping to enter the United States because we cannot afford to take any shortcuts with our refugee process that could jeopardize American lives. But the real focus should be for the United States to work with Europe and our other allies to defeat ISIS and stabilize these countries so millions of Iraqis and Syrians don’t have to leave their homes.”
U.S. Senator Bob Corker said, “While I believe it is important that the United States provide assistance to those seeking protection from the brutality of ISIS and the Assad regime in Syria, there can be no shortcuts when it comes to guaranteeing the safety of the American people,” said Corker. “This bipartisan legislation temporarily would suspend the Syrian and Iraqi refugee program until the administration can assure the American people that we have the right systems in place to certify that those entering our country are thoroughly vetted and do not pose a security threat. To truly stem the refugee crisis, we must address it at its core and work with our allies to develop a broader strategy to counter the destabilizing forces in the Middle East.”
U.S. Senator David Perdue said, "ISIS has called on its supporters to exploit refugee programs and unsecure borders to attack its enemies. This global call to action and resulting terrorist attacks have Georgians and Americans concerned about their safety and the security of our homeland. This bill helps guarantee that effective safeguards are in place to prevent radical terrorists from using the refugee program to their advantage. When we are facing such serious safety threats, it is disappointing Senate Democrats blocked this effort and put political interests ahead of national security.”
The bill passed in the House of Representatives on Nov. 19 by a vote of 289 to 137.