Lehigh Times

Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Lehigh) has released a statement denouncing a recent rally in support of illegal immigration that took place in the Lehigh Valley. The rally, hosted by Rep. Danilo Burgos and other radical extremists from Philadelphia, promoted a divisive and dangerous agenda that includes defunding law enforcement and advocating for open borders.

Mackenzie expressed his concern over the impact of such rhetoric, stating, "The words and actions expressed by Rep. Burgos and others are putting people in jeopardy by allowing for increased drug use, human trafficking, and crime in our communities." He emphasized the need to address the problems created by illegal immigration, particularly in areas like Kensington, Philadelphia, which has been severely affected by drug-related issues.

The congressman highlighted a recent Quinnipiac University Poll, which found that an overwhelming majority of voters consider illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border as a serious problem. He also referenced an article featuring Pennsylvania's junior U.S. Senator John Fetterman, who urged Democrats to engage in a reasonable conversation about border security and acknowledge the large numbers of migrants crossing the southern border.

Mackenzie emphasized the role of the federal government in addressing the immigration crisis but also highlighted the importance of state-level action. He outlined a package of bipartisan solutions that he has proposed to mitigate the impacts of illegal immigration and enforce existing laws in Pennsylvania. These proposals include requiring E-Verify for all public contracts, conducting ICE background checks for firearm purchases, protecting vulnerable children from labor exploitation, ending sanctuary cities, improving voter registration records' accuracy, and prohibiting noncitizens from voting in Pennsylvania elections.

The congressman stressed that these proposals have received overwhelming support from his colleagues, except for those who support the radical open borders agenda and oppose law enforcement. He stated, "Radical extremists in opposition to commonsense legislative solutions relating to illegal immigration are truly in the fringe minority."

In conclusion, Rep. Mackenzie reiterated his commitment to finding solutions to the problems caused by illegal immigration, emphasizing the need for bipartisan cooperation and a focus on the safety and well-being of American communities.

For media inquiries, please contact Andy Briggs at 717-260-6474 or abriggs@pahousegop.com. More information can be found on RepMackenzie.com and Facebook.com/RepMackenzie.

Note: The content of this article is based solely on the statements provided by Rep. Ryan Mackenzie and other sources mentioned in the original article.