January 12, 2018

Watson Coleman Statement on Trump’s Racist Comments Targeting Immigrants from Africa and Central America

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Vice Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the followings statement in response to reports that Donald Trump attacked immigration from “shithole countries” like Haiti, El Salvador and African countries:

“Donald Trump continues to make clear what many of us knew to be true in throughout the 2016 presidential election cycle: he is a racist whose bigotry and ignorance guide his decision-making. For far too long, his allies and validators have excused his shameful behavior and discriminatory policies, refusing to hold him to the standard of the Office of the President.

 “This nation is made great, due in no small part, to the contributions of immigrants of all races, nationalities and religions. The very fiber of America is strengthened when we uplift and include everyone seeking to achieve the American dream. 

 “With an agenda that prioritizes protecting our Dreamers, comprehensive immigration reform and continuing efforts to increase national security – it is a disgrace that the leader of this nation has reassured the nation and global community of his woeful incompetence.”

Last year, Rep. Watson Coleman alongside, Reps. Jerrold Nadler and Pramila Jayapal introduced a censure resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives against President Donald Trump for his comments blaming “both sides” for the violence in Charlottesville, Virginia and excusing the behavior of participants in the ‘Unite the Right’ rally.

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