Cynical, United Republican Obstruction Denies Passage of DREAM Act

Washington D.C. - Today, the Senate failed to muster the 60 votes needed to move forward the Defense authorization bill, including the DREAM Act amendment.

Today, the immigration reform movement and immigrant youth were stymied by an obstinate Republican minority more interested in scoring political points than in delivering for the American people. Republicans in the Senate caved - again - to partisan pressure from their leadership to block progress on a bill that is not only vital to our national security, but that provided a vehicle for other important measures, specifically the DREAM Act. This Congress has been one Republican filibuster after another, but the American people have grown very tired of this story.

Senators Harry Reid (D-NV) and Richard Durbin (D-IL) deserve enormous credit for having the political courage to introduce the DREAM Act as part of the Department of Defense Authorization bill. Their courage on this bill is in stark contrast to the Republicans, who showed their true colors. No one should have any doubt where Republicans stand on the futures of promising immigrant youth and immigration reform. Their "need not apply" and "you're not welcome" message to Latinos and other immigrants was loud and clear.

In fact, it is plainly obvious that the GOP was terrified of going on the record and voting against Latinos on the DREAM Act. The excuses about "objections to the process" are just a smokescreen. Let me state it plainly: This was a vote against young people in America, against Latinos and their families, and against immigrants.

The juxtaposition of the gridlock and partisanship in D.C. with the groundswell of support and activism in the states is stunning. Supporters of immigration reform created more than 70 events in 26 states, and generated over 50,000 calls and 90,000 faxes to Senators on the DREAM Act. Reform Immigration for America and its partners created 140,000 constituent contacts with Senators just in the last six days. The immigration reform movement has matured and it will continue to use its vast organizational power to make real immigration reform a reality.

We are not ever going to give up. The DREAM Act is an important stepping-stone to comprehensive immigration reform, common sense policy, and an overall good return on America's investment. We should let these young people, who love America, pursue their higher education dreams and serve in the United States Armed Forces. Supporters of reform will be looking for every opportunity to move legislation as a part of DOD or otherwise. We will not stop until we have achieved the DREAM act, AgJOBS, and our permanent goal: comprehensive immigration reform.