Fellow Illinoisan,

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Doesn’t it feel good to say those words?

Their inauguration comes during a time of unprecedented challenge for our country—more than 400,000 Americans dead from the coronavirus; a struggling economy; a deeply divided nation; strained global relationships; racial inequality; and a climate in dire straits. As President Biden reminds us, the moment calls for sober reflection as well as national resolve. 

But it is also a moment of hope.  I am optimistic, now more than ever, that we can come together and overcome our challenges and divisions. 

In his first day in office, President Biden took several important steps to put the United States back on track.  He rejoined the Paris Climate Agreement, issued a plan for mask-wearing and social distancing on federal property, and recommitted the United States to the global fight against COVID-19 by re-engaging with the World Health Organization.  These are all important actions that are long overdue.

President Biden also quickly issued key Executive Orders to undo the Trump Administration’s harmful immigration policies.  The Muslim travel ban is gone, diverting funds for construction of the ineffective border wall has been halted, and DACA has been restored. The United States’ immigration policy will once again reflect our proud heritage as a nation of immigrants.

I am eternally grateful to President Biden for keeping his word and restoring DACA on day one. But we cannot stop there.  I first introduced the Dream Act 20 years ago. I'll keep fighting until it becomes law.

Now it is time to get to work to build the country back better and restore the soul of our nation. 

Sincerely,

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL)