Throughout our nation’s history, the United States has drawn immigrants searching for opportunity and a share in the American Dream. It is a massive testament to the United States that people around the world are eager to become a part of our country.

But just as we are a nation built largely and impressively by immigrants, America is also a nation of laws that must be obeyed and properly enforced to maintain order and ensure the safety of all citizens. Indeed, we must begin to fill in the gaps of where we are falling short in our immigration system and work to properly secure the border.

Unfortunately, our current immigration system is broken and desperately needs comprehensive reform that puts America citizens first.  While not the only answer to border security, walls and barriers are effective when it comes to limiting the illegal movement of people and drugs across our borders. Indeed, we must propose real solutions to deal with strengthening security at the southern border, addressing the flood of illegal immigrants, improving enforcement of existing law and making the system fairer and more just for all.

However, any significant reforms to our existing immigration system should be bipartisan. As Congress considers any reforms, I will be guided by three basic principles: we must secure the border first; we must have tough sanctions for employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants; and we must not reward those who broke our laws by providing them with amnesty. I also support elimination of the diversity lottery. In the days ahead, I remain hopeful that these urgent issues can be solved.