Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen was quick to defend the actions of border patrol officials separating families at the border in a speech at a law enforcement conference on Monday.
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“We have to do our job. We will not apologize for doing our job. We have sworn to do this job. This administration has a simple message,” Nielsen stated.
“It is important to note that these minors are very well taken care of. Don’t believe the press,” she explained. “They are very well taken care of. You know this, as many of you have detention facilities of your own. We operate according to some of the highest standards in the country. We provide food, medical, education and all needs that the child requests.”
This misreporting by Members, press & advocacy groups must stop. It is irresponsible and unproductive. As I have said many times before, if you are seeking asylum for your family, there is no reason to break the law and illegally cross between ports of entry.
— Sec. Kirstjen Nielsen (@SecNielsen) June 17, 2018
Nielsen’s speech comes as border patrol’s policy of splitting up families is facing intense scrutiny. She tweeted criticisms of the media’s coverage of the issue over the weekend. (RELATED:DHS Sec Nielsen Defends Trump Administration’s Migrant Policies From ‘Irresponsible And Unproductive’ Press)
“If you cross the border illegally, we will prosecute you. If you make a false immigration claim, we will prosecute you,” Nielsen continued. “If you smuggle illegal aliens across an extraordinarily dangerous journey, we will prosecute you.”