For the past three years, this Administration has lowered the threshold for the number of refugees the United States will accept. Last year, refugee admissions were capped at 30,000, one of the lowest in history. Just this week, we found out the Administration eroded this cap even further. Only 18,000 refugees will be allowed into the United States in 2020.
It is immoral - and in direct contrast to the founding values of the United States - to continue to restrict access to refugees fleeing political violence, persecution, or even natural disaster. The basis for our nation's leadership in the international community is our promise of hope and prosperity, not performances of apathy and exclusion.
We must stand up for the bedrock principles of the United States and the further the international community's commitment to human rights.
That is why I voted for House Resolution 444, reaffirming the importance of the United States to promote the safety, health, and well-being of refugees and displaced persons. I am also a proud cosponsor of the GRACE Act, which would set an annual minimum refugee cap of 95,000.
I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure refugees can look to the United States at a place of hope and generosity. To keep up with my work in Congress, sign up for my e-newsletter here!