Peters Statement on Revised Executive Order

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today released the following statement on President Trump’s signing of a revised executive order:

“As a member of the Homeland Security and Armed Services Committees, I take very seriously the federal government’s responsibility to keep Americans safe. I believe we should always look for ways to fortify our refugee screening process, which is already one of the most rigorous in the world. However, I do not support President Trump’s suspension of the refugee admissions program that closes our doors to those fleeing the horrors of war in the hopes of a better life for their families.

“Make no mistake: Trump Administration officials have stated that this revised executive order is aimed at achieving the same policy objectives as the previous executive order that effectively implemented a religious test to enter our country. I’ve heard firsthand from Michigan’s Arab and Muslim communities about the chilling impact of the previous executive order, whether it’s long-separated family members denied entry to our country after years of security screening or the hateful and discriminatory rhetoric directed at Arabs and Muslims that runs contrary to our American values.

“I’m very disappointed that instead of uniting Americans and focusing on how we can work together to create jobs and strengthen our economy, President Trump continues to pursue divisive executive orders that further polarize our nation.”