National Immigration Law Center Denounces Anti-Immigrant Rhetoric at Second GOP Debate

SIMI VALLEY, CA – The second Republican presidential debate tonight once again showcased the party’s commitment to extremist positions on immigration in the United States.

The following is a statement by National Immigration Law Center Executive Director Marielena Hincapié:

“The recent increase in anti-immigrant rhetoric from the GOP candidates was on full display tonight. It’s clear that we no longer just have a Donald Trump problem — rather, the entire Republican Party is responsible for pedaling policies and positions that criminalize and scapegoat America’s immigrant families.

“The anti-immigrant rhetoric from these GOP candidates belies the very principles our democracy was founded on. It also encourages dangerous behavior and hate crimes towards new Americans. Tonight, the candidates showed the country that their vision is short-sighted and threatens to undermine the progress we’ve made as a nation of immigrants.”

# # #