Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 11, 2023

WASHINGTON – Congressman John Duarte (CA-13) issued the following statement following his “nay” vote on H.R. 2, the Secure Our Borders Act of 2023:

“After much thought, I have voted against H.R. 2, the Secure Our Borders Act of 2023. While I wholeheartedly support enhanced border security, Valley families deserve practical solutions that both Democrats and Republicans can support. Unfortunately, this bill would harm many families that work in our Valley and create difficulties for our food producers. 

As it stands, this legislation is dead on arrival in the Senate. However, I believe we could do better. With hard work from both Democrats and Republicans, we can deliver real results to fix DACA, ensure a flexible and effective guest worker program, and protect our border. I encourage my colleagues from both parties to work together on a bipartisan bill that benefits our working families and strengthens our nation’s economy.

I understand that my vote will not be popular among some of my fellow Republicans, but I am committed to upholding my promise to put working families ahead of Washington party politics. I have never been afraid to stand up for our Valley, even if it means standing alone at times. I will continue to work with my colleagues, both Democratic and Republican, to find commonsense solutions to secure our Border and protect our families,” said Rep. Duarte.

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