'These kids must be allowed to pursue the American Dream': Governor Rick Scott releases statement on future of DACA

Jacksonville, FL — With President Trump expected to announce a decision about the future of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA, on Tuesday, Florida Governor Rick Scott is weighing in.

Scott says he doesn't favor punishing children who were brought into the US illegally by their parents, though he didn't necessarily say he agrees with the program.

"President Obama was wrong to address the Dreamers issue by Executive Order. He should have done it in conjunction with Congress, which is how we make laws in our democracy," says Scott.

He says the issue is something Congress needs to act on immediately, saying he's encouraged by the approach Congressman Carlos Curbelo and Senator Thom Tillis are working on.  The two are considering legislation to protect Dreamers.

However, Scott is making it clear he opposes illegal immigration and that our borders need to be secured.

"Every single bit of immigration policy becomes much simpler once we secure our borders and put an end to illegal immigration. We must also not allow so-called sanctuary cities to defy our nation's laws and we must rigorously vet every potential immigrant," says Scott.

READ: Governor Rick Scott's full statement on the future of DACA.

""Presidnt Obama was wrong to address the Dreamers issue by Executive Order. He should have done it in conjunction with Congress, which is how we make laws in our democracy. But this issue must be addressed. I do not favor punishing children for the actions of their parents.

“These kids must be allowed to pursue the American Dream, and Congress must act on this immediately. I am encouraged by the approach Congressman Carlos Curbelo and Senator Thom Tillis are working on to address this problem.

“I want to be very clear: I oppose illegal immigration, and everything else that is illegal. We must secure our borders and the federal government is irresponsible in not doing so. Every single bit of immigration policy becomes much simpler once we secure our borders and put an end to illegal immigration. We must also not allow so-called sanctuary cities to defy our nation’s laws and we must vigorously vet every potential immigrant. Failing to do that is irresponsible.”