Scalise Statement on Government Funding and Border Security Package

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) released the following statement regarding President Trump's intent to sign the fiscal year 2019 appropriations package into law:

“I applaud President Trump’s decision to sign this government funding bill, as well as the steps he continues taking to keep our country safe. Despite efforts by Speaker Pelosi, we were able to secure funding to build an additional 55 miles of new wall along some of the most dangerous areas of our southern border. President Trump took an oath to keep our country safe, and I support all legal measures he takes to fulfill that pledge to secure America’s border and protect us here at home.

“The funding package we will vote on today appropriates $22.5 billion for new border technology, physical barriers, and personnel, which will continue to provide President Trump with the tools he needs to fully secure our border. Republicans forced Speaker Pelosi to abandon her radical position of ‘one dollar’ for the wall and a plan to arbitrarily cap ICE detention beds, which would have released thousands of violent criminals into our streets. These fringe positions are not supported by the American people, and I am glad we were able to win that battle.

“The $1.375 billion in funding for 55 miles of badly-needed border wall is a big step, but clearly falls short of what Republicans wanted and what the President requested. It’s a shame that Speaker Pelosi continues to ignore the recommendations of the brave men and women who risk their lives to protect our border, and refuses to support the full $5.7 billion requested for physical barriers. Fortunately, President Trump made a promise to the American people to build a wall in areas where drugs, human trafficking, and criminals flow freely into the United States, and this deal ensures President Trump has the flexibility and access to funds to build more wall and secure America’s border.”