Press Releases

Tonight, President Obama is set to deliver a prime time address where he will outline his plan for unilateral executive action that will ignore or change existing law related to immigration – action the Washington Post claims will “expand the authority of the executive branch into murky, uncharted territory.”

In advance of the speech, I thought it would be helpful to provide background on the issue. The President has, in the past, repeatedly argued that he does NOT have the legal authority to act without Congress.

In fact, the Speaker’s office has compiled a list of 22 statements made by the President claiming he cannot do what he now plans to do.

The Washington Post gave the President an “upside-down Pinocchio,” their worst rating, for what the publication deemed a flip-flop by the President.

“Previously he said that was not possible, using evocative language that he is not a ‘king’ or ‘the emperor.’ Apparently he’s changed his mind. The president earns an upside-down Pinocchio for his flip-flop.” (Washington Post; 11/18/2014)

In the same article, the Post highlighted these previous assertions made by President Obama claiming he does not have the authority to act alone:

“Univision Town Hall, March 28, 2011: ‘The executive branch’s job is to enforce and implement those laws.’”

“Interview with Univision, Jan. 31, 2013: ‘I’m not a king’”

“Google Hangout, Feb. 14, 2013: ‘I’m not the emperor of the United States’”

“Interview with Noticias Telmundo, Sept. 17, 2013: ‘There is a path to get this done and that is through Congress.’”

What do the American people think about executive action by President Obama? 48% oppose it while only 38% support it.

Instead of acting unilaterally, the President should listen to the American people and work with Congress on common-sense reforms.