For Immediate Release       
Contact: Dan Gordon, 617-651-0841
Jan. 13, 2021

Confirming Mayorkas Would Be a Step Towards Smarter Immigration Policy

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ahead of Tuesday’s Senate confirmation hearing for Alejandro Mayorkas to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), immigration and law enforcement leaders have heralded his nomination as a smart move toward a safer, more welcoming nation.

President-elect Biden’s selection of Mayorkas to head DHS drew praise from law enforcement and business leaders, who characterize it as a "welcome announcement" and describe the former DHS deputy secretary as "a proven leader who understands the importance of balancing the needs for national security and the need to have meaningful immigration reform." In a December Fox News op-ed, Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo called the nomination "welcome news for America’s law enforcement community," noting that Mayorkas’ record of cooperative engagement with law enforcement was "an important signal that he’s ready to work with communities in developing the safest, most effective immigration policies."

As a former prosecutor, Mayorkas understands the importance of protecting the integrity of our immigration system and the rule of law. In his previous service at DHS, he championed smart border security and enforcement approaches to streamline DHS while ensuring the safety of all Americans — approaches that members of the Law Enforcement Immigration Task Force pointed to in their support of Mayorkas.  

"Alejandro Mayorkas understands the balance between keeping the nation secure and ensuring that we welcome the talent and the families that help all Americans reach their fullest potential. Both will be essential to a successful Biden immigration approach," said Ali Noorani, President and CEO of the National Immigration Forum. "As we have outlined, compassion for immigrants and an emphasis on security do not have to be at odds, and an approach that champions both is possible. Alejandro Mayorkas has shown the kind of leadership that can make that approach a reality."

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