WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) released the following statement today after the Senate failed to pass the DREAM Act by a vote of 55-41. Harkin is a co-sponsor of the bill.
"I am appalled that partisan politics and the archaic filibuster stood in the way of passing the DREAM Act today. My mother came to the United States as an immigrant and because of the opportunities in this country, I was able to fulfill the American dream. It is a shame that we cannot extend the same opportunities to others who are willing to contribute to our country and abide by the rules.
"What's frustrating is that the DREAM Act was originally a bipartisan bill that was introduced by a Republican. In 2003, it had the support of 15 Republican cosponsors. Unfortunately today the minority has put partisan politics ahead of common sense legislation.
"Contrary to false rumors, this is not an amnesty bill. Rather, it would have enabled children who are in America as a result of their parents' actions to contribute by attending college or enlisting in the military after completing high school. These students would not have received immediate citizenship. They would have to have arrived in the U.S. by the age of 15, displayed good moral character, passed criminal and security clearances, and lived in the United States for at least five years.
"Why would we want to turn away a college educated person who wants to add to our economy and tax base, or a person willing to fight for this county? We wouldn't - and that is why failure to pass this bill is such bad news for these students and our nation's future."
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