I just left the state Capitol, where Bill Montgomery and I announced at a press conference this morning our tough approach to border security. I opened by reminding the media that on the day Janet Napolitano and Terry Goddard took office nearly 4 years ago, more than 5,000 people crossed our border unlawfully. Today, more than 5,000 people crossed our border unlawfully. Nothing has changed.
The Associated Press already issued this story. What it fails to mention is that U.S. Congressman Trent Franks was there to add emphasis to the notion that Arizona must take action, and to endorse the Munsil-Montgomery plan. Two tough-on-immigration legislators — Sen. Jack Harper and Rep. Eddie Farnsworth — were with us as well.
The people of Arizona are ready to take action. The money we spend to deter illegal crossings will be more than made up for by the protection this will provide from terrorist threats, crime, environmental damage, and overcrowded schools, emergency rooms and other drains on social services.
I support the efforts to build up the wall along our southern border, but it would bankrupt the taxpayers of Arizona to make us financially responsible. I will work with my friends in Congress in support of building the wall, while we focus on the cost-effective approach of radar technology and manpower to stop illegal crossings.
