WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-NM) issued the following statement after joining the full Senate in passing historic comprehensive immigration reform by a vote of 68-32.
"I am proud to come from a state where we celebrate our diversity; Native American, Hispanic and European traditions are folded into our culture and make our state the most special place in the country. We appreciate that immigrant traditions are part of our identity.
"As residents of a border state, New Mexicans also understand what is at stake with border security. They understand the complex challenges we face as we tackle immigration reform legislation that secures our border while respecting that we are a nation of immigrants. They know firsthand why fixing our broken immigration system is so important to our future.
"I joined the Senate with pride today to approve comprehensive immigration reform legislation. This bill secures our borders, strengthens families, and supports our economy. It isn't perfect. I offered amendments to improve oversight of the Department of Homeland Security, fight violent crime and drug trafficking on the border and expand economic development opportunities at our ports of entry. I'm disappointed they were not included. But this is a good bill. And it speaks to the best of our traditions and values.
"Today's vote was historic. But there is still a long way to go before we can implement reform. I call on my colleagues in the House of Representatives to take up this bill or pass their own. Reform will not be perfect, and it won't satisfy everyone in every case. That's what compromise means. That's what bipartisan effort requires. The American people are asking for results. They're asking for us to govern. This is our opportunity. I hope the full Congress will build on the bipartisan spirit we saw in the Senate today and come together to move our nation forward."
