Hoyer Statement in Support of Legislation to Oppose Immigration Bans Based on Religion

“I’m proud to cosponsor Rep. Beyer’s bill, which makes clear that the United States does not discriminate based on religion.  Regardless of what Donald Trump may think, barring members of a particular religious group from entering the country is unconstitutional and would never be supported by Congress or the courts.  Our Founders insisted not only on including the Establishment Clause in the Bill of Rights but made it the very first to be enshrined in that document: ‘Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.’ 

“I’m honored to serve as a Representative from the State of Maryland, which was founded by a religious minority whose members came here to practice their faith freely.  That is what America has always been about: welcoming those who seek a better life without discriminating against their religious beliefs.  When that promise is threatened, all Americans ought to be alarmed. 

“Those seeking to come to our country are doing so for the same reason as so many who came before them – because they want a better future for themselves and their children.  Many are refugees, now fleeing the violence and intolerance of extremist groups like ISIL, which murders those who do not adhere to its radical beliefs and practices.  I hope House Republicans will join with us as cosponsors of this bill to send a strong message of support for our Constitution and the freedoms we hold dear and that have sustained us for generations.”