Dear Friends,
I've had several people contact my office with questions about Syrian refugees. In light of the recent attacks in Paris, where at least one of the attackers reportedly posed as a refugee to enter Europe, many people are concerned about the screening and security processes if any refugees were to come to the United States or Minnesota.
House Speaker Kurt Daudt sent a letter yesterday to Governor Dayton calling on him to ask President Obama to suspend the relocation program until the Department of Homeland Security can conduct a full review and make sure we can safely screen these refugees. As you may have heard, Governors and legislators have little influence in determining where refugees are located within the country once here. That is why the decision must come from the President.
You can read Speaker Daudt's letter here.
I issued the following statement yesterday evening in support of the letter:
"Safety of Minnesota families is our number one priority, and I echo Speaker Daudt's letter—Governor Dayton must ask President Obama to suspend the relocation of refugees until we are certain beyond doubt that our security screenings are adequate enough to stop terrorists from entering this country. Our heart breaks for those who are fleeing violence, but we cannot allow terrorists to slip in amongst the innocent and do harm to families in America."
My top priority remains keeping Minnesotans safe, and I will keep you updated on this important issue. I welcome your comments, and encourage you to reach out to your Congressional representatives and make your thoughts known as well.
Take care,
Glenn