WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — Democrats on Wednesday announced a plan to reverse the Trump administration’s travel ban, which they say is an attack on civil rights.
“We will not stay silent and we will not stop fighting,” Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., said in a press conference outside the U.S. Capitol.
After a long court battle, the U.S. Supreme Court in June upheld the policy blocking travel from seven countries, five of which are predominantly Muslim.
Saying it unfairly targets Muslims, Democrats and advocates are preparing to go toe-to-toe with President Donald Trump to reverse the ban.
“We cannot simply stand by and let this very disgraceful policy continue,” Rep. Andre Carson, D-Ind., said.
“It’s meant that mothers can’t be assured that they can be at the bedside of their dying children,” Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., added.
Lawmakers want to not only reverse the ban, but also create new rules to prevent future orders by future presidents.
“All of us who share commitment to religious freedom and human rights must come together to get this bill passed,” Carson said.
He and Omar are among three Muslims in the House fighting the ban. The third is Michigan Democrat Rashida Tlaib.
Republicans who support the ban say Democrats are risking the safety of Americans.
“I think the courts are making sure that it’s done in a way that is targeted toward states that encourage terrorism and has nothing to do with ethnicity,” Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., said.
Still, Democrats say they’re confident their bill will pass the House, with a vote possible this summer. They’re not as optimistic about approval by the Senate, but are hoping to gain support from Republicans in the upper chamber.
