Duval Times

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) recently appeared on TV stations in Florida to discuss pressing issues such as the migration crisis at the southern border and government spending deals. Rubio expressed his concerns about the escalating number of illegal border crossings since President Joe Biden took office, emphasizing the need for stricter border control.

Rubio stated, "It’s the number one issue we have. In December, we had 300,000 people just walk into the country illegally. Since Joe Biden has been president, the number is close to seven million people. We don’t know the exact number. The most fundamental job of any country is to control its sovereignty: who comes in, when they come in, how many can come in, and at what time."

He further asserted that the consequences of uncontrolled migration are far-reaching, impacting various aspects of society. Rubio highlighted the financial burden placed on local governments and the strain on resources, stating, "It’s kids that can’t go to school in some states. It’s local governments who are having to foot the bill to feed people, provide housing for people, housing that we don’t have. It’s all the problems that come with mass migration."

Rubio also discussed the need for the current administration to take immediate action to address the crisis. He criticized the cancellation of Trump-era policies that could have helped stem the flow of illegal immigration. Rubio questioned the effectiveness of passing new legislation if the administration is unwilling to enforce existing laws, stating, "If this administration will not do what it is able to do right now under the law, what makes us believe that they’re going to do whatever it takes if we pass a law?"

Regarding congressional negotiations to increase border security, Rubio acknowledged the importance of proposed changes to limit the number of people paroled into the country. However, he expressed skepticism about the administration's commitment to enforcing immigration standards, given their refusal to utilize existing executive powers to address the crisis.

The discussion also touched on the need to reform the legislative process to avoid last-minute backroom deals. Rubio emphasized the importance of passing appropriations bills through regular order, allowing all members to have a voice in the decision-making process. He criticized the habit of a few individuals making deals behind closed doors, stating, "We have got to get out of this habit of deals... We have got to get back to the way this thing is supposed to work."

Rubio called for a return to regular order in the legislative process, where laws and funding mechanisms go through committees, undergo debate and amendments, and are voted on by all members. He urged both parties to demand this change and expressed hope that it would begin in the House.

In conclusion, Rubio stressed the need for effective governance and urged members of both parties to prioritize the best interests of the country. He called for an end to the practice of presenting "take it or leave it" propositions negotiated by a small number of individuals. Rubio emphasized that drawing a line in the sand would require the collective effort of members from both parties.

Rubio's appearance on Florida TV stations provided a platform for him to express his concerns about the migration crisis at the southern border and advocate for a more transparent and inclusive legislative process. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether his calls for change will be heeded by his colleagues in Congress.