WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs; Rep. Albio Sires (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere; and Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-TX) today introduced a measure in the House of Representatives underscoring the importance of a U.S.-Mexico partnership based on mutual respect and encouraging President Trump to prioritize this strategic alliance. Thirty-three other Members of Congress cosponsored this resolution before introduction.

“When President Trump took office, he inherited a strong U.S.-Mexico relationship, but one that needed to be handled with care.  Unfortunately, he didn't.  I regret this Administration's departure from the strong bipartisan support for the U.S.-Mexico partnership that we saw under Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush,” Rep. Engel said. “This resolution sends a clear message to President Peña Nieto and the Mexican people that we will not allow the Trump Administration's reckless diplomacy to define our partnership with Mexico. I urge President Trump to reverse course immediately so that our relationship can get back on track.”

“Mexico has been a strong ally of the United States through both Democrat and Republican Administrations. President Trump’s misguided efforts to demonize our neighbors could have costly repercussions for Americans. His divisive rhetoric does nothing but unnecessarily target a nation that continues to be a strong ally of the United States. The best way to protect our border is to continue the strong security, economic, and diplomatic relations that both President Bush and President Obama helped strengthen,” said Rep. Sires.

Rep. Castro said, “President Trump’s reckless, bullying behavior towards our allies is completely inappropriate. Our friend Mexico has been the target of the President’s attacks since the beginning of his campaign. We feel it important to reassure Mexico, an important economic and security partner, that we deeply value our nations’ cooperation. The President’s actions do not reflect Congress’s commitment to our close ally.”

The resolution can be found here.

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