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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
During his remarks, Talarico said both the challenges and benefits of immigration should be acknowledged.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe understand the challenges. We also understand the benefits,\u201d Talarico said. \u201cAnd I think we can all agree that we need comprehensive immigration reform.\u201d<\/p>\n
He called on leaders in the United States Senate and in Washington, D.C., to \u201csolve this problem and fix the system,\u201d rather than \u201cgrandstanding\u201d or \u201cscoring political points.\u201d<\/p>\n
Talarico described his view of border policy by saying the southern border should be \u201clike our front porch.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThere should be a giant welcome mat out front and a lock on the door,\u201d he said. \u201cThose are not mutually exclusive values.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The appearance, taking place outside Camp East Montana, a site that has continued to draw attention amid ongoing national debates over immigration policy.<\/p>\n
This is on the heels of an intense Senate race with Jasmine Crockett, who will be visiting El Paso tomorrow.<\/p>\n
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