02.23.15

Senate Democrats Should End Their Weeks-Long Filibuster of DHS Funding Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell made the following remarks on the Senate floor calling on Senate Democrats to end their filibuster of the Department of Homeland Security funding bill:

“In just a few moments, Democrats will have another opportunity to end their weeks-long filibuster of Homeland Security funding.

“It will be the first opportunity for Democrats to show where they stand after a federal judge preliminarily enjoined the Administration from moving ahead with actions President Obama himself referred to as ‘ignoring the law.’

“’Ignoring the law.’ Quote-unquote. President Obama said that just over a year ago.

“The point is, it’s time to allow this Homeland Security funding measure to come to the floor. Democrats say they want the ability to amend DHS’ funding legislation. But then they keep voting to block their own ability to offer amendments.

“It just doesn’t make any sense. So in a few moments, we’ll give Democrats another opportunity to reconsider. Democrats can vote to allow the Senate to debate Homeland Security funding. Democrats can vote to allow the Senate to consider amendments from both sides.

“And that’s just what they should do. That’s what constituents are right to expect. Let’s take this funding bill up and get to work.”

Related Issues: Executive Orders, Immigration, Appropriations