[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 146 (Thursday, September 19, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H5461]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      IMMIGRANTS SERVE VITAL ROLE

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from New 
Jersey (Mr. Menendez) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in solidarity with immigrant 
communities across the country, the people who we call our friends, 
neighbors, and loved ones.
  We know that immigrants serve a vital role in the fabric of our 
Nation. Unfortunately, Donald Trump and his allies have spent their 
time and energy spreading lies about them. The most recent lies about 
immigrants are as dangerous as they are false, and they are part of the 
same tired playbook that we have seen from extremist Republicans time 
and time again.
  From Springfield, Ohio, to Hudson County, New Jersey, immigrants are 
being vilified, threatened, and harassed. Immigrants don't feel safe 
going to work, picking up their children from school, or even going to 
their places of worship. This is a direct result of the dangerous 
rhetoric coming from the very top of the Republican Party, and it is 
unacceptable. It is past time that we return to the level of political 
discourse that lifts immigrants up, not tears them down.
  I am immensely proud to represent New Jersey's 8th Congressional 
District, a community that is over 40 percent foreign born. I, myself, 
am the grandson of Cuban immigrants. Their story and the stories of so 
many in New Jersey and across the country are what make America great.
  Our district is proof that when we stand side by side with immigrant 
families, embracing different ideas, cultures, and backgrounds, we make 
our communities stronger.
  In Congress, I strive for leadership rooted in respect, and I would 
hope that all those who have the privilege of serving in elected office 
would do the same. That is how we promise a future for this country 
rooted in respect, integrity, and inclusivity.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair reminds Members to refrain from 
engaging in personalities toward nominees for the Office of President.

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