DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano had few answers

chris chmielenski
Fri, July 20th

In her first appearance before the House Judiciary Committee in over nine months, DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano had few answers to the Members' questions regarding her June memo. The memo laid out the framework for an amnesty through use of prosecutorial discretion for illegal aliens who meet certain requirements like those found in the DREAM Act.

Members acted more like prosecutors cross-examining a hostile witness than Members of Congress. There were calls by Members to restore "regular order" after several tense moments where the Secretary dodged or refused to answer questions. Many of the key moments from Thursday's hearing are detailed in my new blog.

Reps. Elton Gallegly and Steve King challenged Sec. Napolitano over the issue of work permits. It took Rep. Gallegly four tries before he could get Sec. Napolitano to answer his question asking how many illegal aliens would receive work permits while 14 million Americans remain unemployed. Rep. King told Sec. Napolitano that he has an issue when prosecutorial discretion results in the issuance of work permits and he told her he'll "see her in court".

Chairman Lamar Smith questioned Sec. Napolitano on whether or not applicants would have to provide certified school transcripts to qualify considering the Administration has sold the policy as a way to help illegal alien students. He also asked if the illegal aliens who qualify would be allowed to leave and re-enter the country. Sec. Napolitano had no answers despite the fact that these questions were raised the day the policy was announced.

Members also brought up concerns over the termination of the 287(g) program, border security, visa overstays, and more. It was, by far, one of the most hostile committees Napolitano has faced in her three years as Secretary.

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chris chmielenski
Fri, July 20th