Concerns Raised Regarding Attorney General Nominee’s Positions

WASHINGTON, DC — The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) voiced concerns about the nomination of Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) for the position of Attorney General in the Trump Administration.

In response to the nomination, William A. Stock, AILA President, said, "For 70 years, AILA has stood for the principle that immigration law enforcement is important for America, but that it must be carried out in a manner consistent with our Constitution and our legal and moral obligations to protect refugees and other vulnerable populations. The Attorney General's role has a tremendous impact within our justice system, including responsibility for administration of the immigration courts throughout the United States. We recommend that the Senate thoroughly explore Senator Sessions' plans for the immigration court system and get his commitment, as Attorney General, to ensuring those accused of being removable get a fair hearing, and a full opportunity to apply for all forms of relief that exist under the law."

AILA Executive Director Benjamin Johnson agreed, stating, "It is vital that the person nominated to be the next Attorney General, who will enforce civil rights protections of all, native and foreign-born, have a record of respect for due process, equal protection, and fundamental fairness, and an understanding of the importance of a reasonable immigration system. Based on public statements and actions by Sen. Sessions, there is real concern that he does not have that record and that civil rights could be undermined to the detriment of our country's future. Certainly questions about Senator Sessions' commitment to these fundamental principles should be raised during any confirmation hearing. AILA will work with anyone who is willing to roll up his or her sleeves and do the hard work of building a fair, just and reasonable immigration system that works for America, but we will continue to fight back against policies that erode fundamental American principles of fairness and due process, as well as the civil rights that protect us all."

The American Immigration Lawyers Association is the national association of immigration lawyers established to promote justice, advocate for fair and reasonable immigration law and policy, advance the quality of immigration and nationality law and practice, and enhance the professional development of its members.