Senator Rand Paul is speaking out against accepting refugees from countries considered to have a high risk of terrorism, as well as the vetting process for Syrian refugees.
The Bowling Green Republican is critical of using federal dollars to resettle refugees in the U.S. During a visit to Western Kentucky University Monday, Paul said he thinks refugees should instead depend on sponsorships from third-party groups, like churches or non-governmental organizations.
“So, I’m not against it. My church here in town helped some of the first Bosnian families to come to town who’ve become a good part of our community. But at the same time I don’t think we should open our borders and say to the world, ‘Come to America.’”
Refugees are encouraged to become self-sufficient in four to six months after arriving in the U.S. Paul says although there are refugees who have contributed to their new communities, the U.S shouldn’t make refugee resettlement a high priority.
Paul says America’s allies in the Middle East should take in more Syrian refugees.
“We really should have a program where you come to work, I don’t think the refugee program should be one of government assistance or putting people in government housing. It should be allowing people to come who want to work and have a sponsor,” Paul said.
Bowling Green will be resettling 40 Syrian refugees this month.
