Rep. Luis Gutierrez had some strong words for his Democratic colleagues in the House and Senate, who have asked President Obama to delay any announcements regarding his executive actions on immigration until after the November midterms. During a conference call with reporters on Wednesday, the Congressman bluntly urged Democrats to “step aside” and allow the president to act on immigration as soon as possible.
As one of the most vocal and outspoken advocates of immigration reform, Gutierrez said, “Let the president make the decision. Let him announce it and stop this stopping the progress of our community towards justice. Just step aside.”
Many of the Senate Democrats that have asked the president to delay action are currently facing highly competitive and difficult reelection bids and fear the electoral backlash that could result from the president’s unilateral action on immigration. Gutierrez is certainly cognizant of these concerns but reminded his colleagues that they cannot afford to ‘pick and choose’ when they support immigrants, Democrats must strive to maintain a consistent policy.
Lorella Praeli, director of advocacy and policy for United We Dream echoed Gutierrez’s point and cautioned Democrats against alienating immigrants and advocates by delaying action. Praeli said,“ When Republicans attack us and when Democrats don’t deliver, we are not afraid to step in and challenge power and to confront it and to expose people for the choices that they are making.”
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