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Jim Risch on Immigration

Republican Jr Senator; previously Governor

 


No comprehensive legislation; no amnesty

Q: Would you vote for comprehensive immigration legislation that would secure the border, dramatically increase H-1B visas and provide a path to citizenship for those already in the United States illegally?

A: No. Reform is necessary; however, I oppose amnesty in any form.

Source: BIPAC 2008 Senate Candidate Questionnaire , Nov 1, 2008

Don't allow illegal immigrants to earn citizenship

Q: Do you support or oppose the policy: "Allow illegal immigrants to earn citizenship"?

A: Oppose

Source: Email interview on 2008 Senate race with OnTheIssues.org , Jun 8, 2008

I oppose amnesty in any form

We must secure our borders, stop illegal aliens and terrorists from entering our country. I oppose amnesty in any form.
Source: 2008 Senate campaign website, www.Risch4Idaho.com, "Issues" , May 2, 2008

First and foremost, we need to secure our borders

I believe there is a three-pronged approach to immigration reform. First and foremost, we need to secure our borders. We cannot begin to solve this problem until we can control the borders. Second, we need to reform our current immigration laws making a practical and workable program for legal immigration and workers. Finally, there should be no amnesty. No one should be rewarded for breaking the law.
Source: Vote-USA.org on 2020 Idaho Senate race , Apr 3, 2008

Ensure that only legal immigrants receive state benefits

Gov. Risch today directed state agencies to prevent illegal aliens from joining the state workforce. The order requires agencies to use a federal program called Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE). "While the illegal immigration problem will ultimately be resolved at the federal level, the state can partner with them and do what it can to ensure that only those who have entered our country legally can be a state employee or receive state benefits," said Risch.
Source: Press release, "Alien Verification" , Dec 13, 2006

Support national emergency at the Southern border.

Risch voted NAY Joint Resolution on Proclamation 9844

Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives: That the national emergency declared by the finding of the President on February 15, 2019, in Proclamation 9844 is hereby terminated.

Proclamation 9844 issued by the president on Feb. 15, 2019: Declares a state of national emergency at the southern border to address the issues of illegal immigration and criminal trafficking into the US: `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. The southern border is a major entry point for criminals, gang members, and illicit narcotics. The problem of large-scale unlawful migration through the southern border is long-standing, and despite the executive branch`s exercise of existing statutory authorities, the situation has worsened in certain respects in recent years. Because of the gravity of the current emergency situation, it is necessary for the Armed Forces to provide additional support to address the crisis.`

Opposing the Proclamation (supporting the Resolution), ACLU press release, 2/15/2019 The ACLU issued the following statement upon filing a lawsuit: `By the president`s very own admission in the Rose Garden, there is no national emergency. He just grew impatient and frustrated with Congress, and decided to move along his promise for a border wall `faster.` This is a patently illegal power grab that hurts American communities and flouts the checks and balances that are hallmarks of our democracy.`

Legislative outcome Passed House 245-182-5 roll #94 on Feb. 26; pass Senate 59-41 roll #49 on March 14; Vetoed by Pres. Trump; veto override failed, 248-181-3 (2/3 required), roll #127 on March 26

Source: Congressional vote 19-HJR46 on Feb 26, 2019

Pro-border security, according to CC survey.

Risch supports the Christian Coalition survey question on border security

The Christian Coalition inferred whether candidates agree or disagree with the statement, 'Increase Border Security Including Additional Infrastructures ?' Self-description by Christian Coalition of America: "These guides help give voters a clear understanding of where candidates stand on important pro-family issues" for all Senate and Presidential candidates.

Source: CC Survey 20CC-12 on Sep 10, 2020

Other candidates on Immigration: Jim Risch on other issues:
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Ammon Bundy
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Janice McGeachin
Raul Labrador
Stephen Heidt
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Page last updated: Feb 01, 2026; copyright 1999-2022 Jesse Gordon and OnTheIssues.org