SCOTUS deals blow to Houstonians hoping for immigration reform
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- For the many people who have been hiding in the shadows, Thursday's Supreme Court deadlock on President Barack Obama's immigration plan was a devastating blow.
"Not being scared of driving around my family, not being scared to be stopped," said a young woman at a press conference.
Local organizations quickly united across Houston to ease the fears and reassure the community the fight is not over.
"This was a 4-4 decision and it was basically non-presidential, which means it doesn't have any precedent in the future," said an immigration professor with the University of Houston. "This decision should not make people afraid to explore their immigration."
Meantime Paul Simpson, chair for the Harris County Republican Party, says it's clear Congress recognizes we are a nation of laws.
"Congress makes the laws and no president, including President Obama, is a dictator," said Simpson.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton expresses the same view. He released this statement:
"This is a major setback to President Obama's attempts to expand executive power, and a victory for those who believe in the separation of powers and the rule of law."
While addressing the nation Thursday morning President Obama said, "sooner rather than later immigration will get done."
Many hopeful Houstonians agree.
"I'ma fight for my family, I'ma fight for my community, I'ma fight for myself because this is not the end. We are here to stay guys and we are not gonna give up on this," said a young woman by the name of Jessica at an immigration media news conference.
