Ed. note: This post is the fourth in a series of five. Check back on the White House Blog throughout the week for more statements from leaders around the country.
Last week, we heard from state and local officials from across the South, Northeast, and Midwest United States about why they support immigration reform and how it will help their communities. Today, officials in the Southwest explain why the time is now to fix the broken immigration system.
Denver, Colorado Mayor Michael Hancock
"Federal immigration policies have a direct impact on Denver’s residents and Denver’s economy. We need long-overdue reforms that keep our communities strong, keep families together, ensure an adequate labor force for a growing economy and maintain the safety of all of our residents. I applaud President Obama for moving forward with fortitude and pushing Washington to rise above partisan gridlock and craft reasonable, sensible changes."
Mesa, Arizona Mayor Scott Smith
"I thank the President for starting the formal consideration of immigration reform by laying out his vision and principles. This is an important economic and social issue that has languished unresolved for too long. Now is the time for Washington to come together and take action."
Santa Fe, New Mexico Mayor David Coss
“Congress must pass comprehensive immigration reform. It is both a practical and a human necessity. In Santa Fe, New Mexico hard-working immigrant families make important contributions to our community every day. They are business owners, workers, students, artists, musicians, parents, police officers and members of our Armed Services. I want all immigrant family members in Santa Fe and across our country to have their basic rights and be able to become full participants in our communities. They need a legal path to citizenship. It will make my town and our country stronger.”
Fonte: White House