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Nov 30, 2010

Senators, it's time to make DREAM Act a reality

Kyl, McCain supported the legislation in previous years -- but will they now?

NEWS SUMMARY

Nov. 30, 2010

PHOENIX -- In 2006, Sen. Jon Kyl was asked whether he supported the DREAM Act. He replied, "In my view, there has to be a way for those kids to get legal permanent residency and eventually, if they desire, citizenship." [AZ Republic, 1/13/06]

In 2007, Sen. John McCain co-sponsored the bill reintroducing the DREAM Act into Congress. Kyl voted for it in committee, but the bill eventually stalled. [Senate Bill 774]

So what will Kyl and McCain do now, as the DREAM Act again nears a vote?

The DREAM Act allows young people who are undocumented to have the opportunity to enlist in the U.S. military or attend college, creating a path to legal status that they otherwise would not have. The bill has bipartisan support, but its passage will come down to just a few undecided lawmakers.

Kyl and McCain now have an opportunity to show leadership on an immigration issue that could have a positive impact on thousands of Arizonans and help strengthen America's armed forces.

"Republicans have been more than willing to exploit immigration issues to score points during the campaign season," said Luis Heredia, Arizona Democratic Party executive director. "But now, Arizona is watching its two Republican senators to see if they are equally willing to be leaders and work toward solutions."

In case you missed it, an editorial in today's Arizona Republic called on our leaders in Washington, D.C., to do the right thing and pass the DREAM Act. Here is an excerpt:

The economic benefits and all-American humanity behind the Dream Act have been buried under a mountain of political spit wads. In truth, the Dream Act simply provides a shot at legal status for undocumented children who grew up saluting the American flag.

It does not reward lawbreakers. It's for kids who stayed out of trouble.

It is not amnesty. It requires college or military service to qualify.

...

In supporting "a clear path to citizenship through military service," Defense Secretary Robert Gates says the Dream Act will help recruitment and military readiness.

It can also help the nation meet its future demand for doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, teachers - and even politicians. That's good for America.

Today's politicians need to recognize the humanity of these young people and acknowledge the benefits they can bring to a nation that embraces them.

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Read the full editorial here.

The Arizona Republic is just one of many voices in Arizona and across the nation calling on our leaders to do the right thing and pass the DREAM Act. Sens. Kyl and McCain, are you listening?