Update from U.S. Senator John Cornyn- August 2005
Update from U.S. Senator John Cornyn
August 2005
During the month of July the Senate achieved a number of important legislative accomplishments. Among the highlights was passage of a long-overdue and comprehensive energy bill to diversify energy sources, increase domestic production, and grow jobs in Texas. The legislation is a significant victory for consumers and our national energy security, and is good for Texas. Also, the Senate passed a key free trade accord, CAFTA, negotiated between the United States, Central American countries and the Dominican Republic. The agreement will grow jobs in Texas by boosting opportunities for exporters and providing additional market access for our products.
When the Senate returns to session in September, in addition to the consideration of the President's nomination of John G. Roberts, Jr. to the United States Supreme Court, the Senate will likely address a bill to make the death tax repeal permanent, an effort I strongly support. As always, I appreciate your input as I continue working to address the issues important to Texans.
Moving Forward: Comprehensive Border Security and Immigration Reform
In July I introduced the Comprehensive Enforcement and Immigration Reform Act of 2005 (S.1438), along with my colleague Sen. Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.). This comprehensive immigration reform legislation will dramatically strengthen enforcement, bolster border security, and comprehensively reform immigration laws. Key components of this bill include: enhanced border security and interior enforcement, employer accountability, and reform that addresses temporary workers and the current illegal population.
In preparation for introducing this bill, we spent the first half of the year conducting a thorough review our nation's immigration laws, which included chairing seven hearings on various aspects of the issue. In the past, we have not devoted the funds, the resources, or the manpower to enforce our immigration laws or protect our borders. This bill is based on the rule of law, and our need to restore enforcement of our laws. We must enact laws capable of strong enforcement, and our laws must be fair, requiring all undocumented individuals to go through the legal process.
On a related note, in early July I hosted roundtable events in Laredo, McAllen and Victoria to discuss the critical issue of border security and immigration reform. This was a valuable opportunity to hear first-hand from law enforcement officials, business leaders and others about their concerns regarding our immigration system.
The Supreme Court of the United States: The Nomination of John G. Roberts, Jr.
On July 19, President Bush announced his nominee to replace retiring Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor: Judge John G. Roberts, Jr, currently serving on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. In doing so, the President has urged the Senate to consider this nomination thoroughly and expeditiously. The President has done his part, and now we in the Senate must do ours. We must ensure that the nomination process does honor to the Supreme Court, to the Senate, and to the nation.
Judge Roberts is an exceptional judge, a brilliant legal mind, and a man of outstanding character who understands his profound duty to follow the law. He has enjoyed a distinguished history of public service and professional achievement. It is clear to me that Judge Robert's history has prepared him well for serving on our nation's highest Court, and I strongly support his nomination.
The process ahead offers a fresh start, and should reflect the best of the American judiciary - not the worst of American politics. America deserves a nominee who reveres the law, not one whose service on the bench is conditioned on political promises. As we proceed, let us do so with dignity and respect, as anything less would dishonor our nation's founding commitment to the rule of law.
Supporting Texas Military Throughout the BRAC Process
As the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process moves forward, I continue working closely with BRAC Commission Chairman Anthony Principi, top military officials, and the affected communities to ensure the commission receives all the necessary information to evaluate the Department of Defense recommendations. I traveled to some of our communities with Secretary Principi on July 10, and was able to show him, firsthand, the importance of Texas military facilities to our nation's defense.
The BRAC hearing in San Antonio on July 11 provided a unique opportunity for communities to make their case before the BRAC Commission. As this was an important step in the review process, I appreciate the participation of all who attended - with a special thanks to the thousands of Texans who traveled many miles to show support. In my testimony during this hearing, I reinforced the value of Texas military facilities to our national and homeland security, and will continue to advocate for the preservation of our military installations.
London Terror Attacks
On July 7, the people of London suffered a tragedy when its public transportation system was hit by a series of coordinated bombings during the morning rush hour. These attacks remind us that the war on terror continues. Our thoughts are with the people of London as they recover from this tragedy, and we stand with them as they work to bring those responsible to justice.
Come See Me
If you're traveling to Washington for business or pleasure, I would greatly appreciate the chance to say hello while you're here. I host an open house in my office, Hart Senate Office Building , Room 625, from 9:00 to 9:30 a.m. every Tuesday when the Senate is in session, so I can greet and talk with Texans. Please call Denise Pleasant, in my office, at (202) 224-2934 to let me know you'll be coming.
Best regards,
Senator John Cornyn
http://cornyn.senate.gov/contact/newsletters/08-2005.cfm