EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) – Texas State Rep. James Talarico spoke to members of the press outside Camp East Montana Saturday morning, calling for comprehensive immigration reform and urging federal leaders to address border policy at the national level.
His visit comes as part of his Take Back Texas tour running from February 17th to March 3rd. Talarico is running as a Democrat for the U.S. Senate in Texas, aiming to challenge Republican Senator John Cornyn.
During his remarks, Talarico said both the challenges and benefits of immigration should be acknowledged.
“We understand the challenges. We also understand the benefits,” Talarico said. “And I think we can all agree that we need comprehensive immigration reform.”
He called on leaders in the United States Senate and in Washington, D.C., to “solve this problem and fix the system,” rather than “grandstanding” or “scoring political points.”
Talarico described his view of border policy by saying the southern border should be “like our front porch.”
“There should be a giant welcome mat out front and a lock on the door,” he said. “Those are not mutually exclusive values.”
Speaking to the media, Talarico said the country can welcome immigrants who want to contribute to the economy and communities, while also enforcing laws against individuals who commit violent crimes.
The appearance, taking place outside Camp East Montana, a site that has continued to draw attention amid ongoing national debates over immigration policy.
This is on the heels of an intense Senate race with Jasmine Crockett, who will be visiting El Paso tomorrow.
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