February 27th, 2019
WASHINGTON, DC- Rep. Steve Womack (AR-3) announced yesterday that he voted against H.J. Res 46, legislation that seeks to nullify President Donald Trump’s emergency declaration.
Proclamation 9844, issued on February 15th, 2019, declares that a National Emergency exists at the southern border of the United States and activates executive powers under the National Emergencies Act. Such powers include the ability of the Secretaries of military departments to utilize troops to assist the activities of the Secretary of Homeland Security at the border as well as construction powers made available to the Secretary of Defense.
“The current situation at the southern border presents a border security and humanitarian crisis that threatens core national security interests and constitutes a national emergency,” said President Trump in the Proclamation. ” The southern border is a major entry point for criminals, gang members, and illicit narcotics.”
Rep Womack, a staunch advocate of border security, voted against the resolution to nullify the declaration on February 26, 2019.
“The humanitarian and security crisis on our southern border must be addressed, and I support President Trump’s effort to protect our nation. It is sad that House Democrats, in their quest to deny the President any semblance of accomplishment on an issue this serious, have resorted to political games. It is telling that these same Democrats are anxious to spend money on socialist programs yet will ignore the constitutional mandate to secure our nation’s borders. I support the Commander-in-Chief’s work to ensure a strong, safe, and secure border,” said Womack in a statement addressing the recent legislation.