Homeland Security
Protecting Our Nation & Ensuring a Just Immigration System
As a former law enforcement officer and an official at the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, I have served on the front lines to keep our city, state, and country safe. Now, in Congress, I continue this work by supporting our first responders, strengthening national security, and advocating for fair and humane immigration policies that reflect our values as a nation.
Keeping Our Communities Safe
Public safety is one of my top priorities. Across Indianapolis, violence, drug trafficking, and gang activity continue to threaten neighborhoods, and our law enforcement and first responders must have the tools they need to protect our communities.
I have strongly supported:
Increased funding for the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program to help hire and train more police officers
The COPS Hiring Program, which helps cities recruit and retain well-trained officers
The Fire Assistance Grant Program, providing essential equipment and resources for our firefighters
While I support fiscal responsibility, I do not believe we should cut funding for first responders—they are the backbone of our emergency response system, and we must ensure they are fully equipped to serve.
A Fair & Humane Immigration System
Immigration strengthens our economy and our communities, yet our system is broken—leaving millions in limbo.
That’s why I strongly support:
A clear, rigorous, and fair pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants
Expanding legal visa programs to prevent future backlogs
Permanent protections for DREAMers, ensuring they can stay in the only country they’ve ever known
DREAMers—brought to the U.S. as children—have grown up in our schools, served in our military, and contributed to our workforce. They deserve permanent legal status and a pathway to citizenship.
Protecting Our Borders While Upholding American Values
As a member of the House Intelligence Committee, I take national security seriously and believe that effective border security is a key component of immigration reform.
We must invest in smart, humane, and effective border security measures that protect the rule of law without demonizing immigrants or violating human rights. I will continue pushing for responsible immigration policies that balance security, compassion, and economic prosperity, not supporting the criminalization of immigrant communities, militarizing our boarder, and separating families or detaining children.
Combating Drug Trafficking & Border Violence
For years, drug cartels and criminal organizations have exploited weaknesses in border security, fueling violence and drug trafficking that impacts both our communities and our neighbors in Mexico. Indiana has also seen a devastating rise in drug addiction and overdose deaths due to the influx of illicit drugs.
I support:
Strengthening drug enforcement measures at ports of entry
Expanding interagency efforts to combat transnational crime
Supporting Mexico’s initiatives to crack down on drug trafficking and organized crime
Instead of fear-mongering about immigrants, we must target the true threats: violent criminal networks that profit from trafficking drugs and people.
Growing Our Economy & Protecting Workers
Immigration is not just about policy—it’s about economic growth and opportunity. Studies have shown that immigrants create jobs, expand our tax base, and strengthen industries across America.
That’s why I support:
Comprehensive immigration reform that boosts economic growth
Stronger labor protections to prevent the exploitation of undocumented workers
Holding employers accountable who pay workers under the table or skirt labor laws
By modernizing our immigration system, we can eliminate workforce exploitation, ensure fair wages, and keep our economy thriving for all Americans.
Welcoming Refugees & Asylum Seekers
One of America’s greatest traditions is offering safety to those fleeing violence, oppression, and persecution. As wars, conflicts, and humanitarian crises continue to unfold around the world, we must uphold our moral and legal obligation to refugees and asylum seekers.
That’s why I firmly support:
Protecting the U.S. refugee resettlement program
Ensuring a fair and efficient asylum process
Ending discriminatory immigration bans
Refugees are some of the most vetted individuals entering the U.S., and they contribute immensely to our communities. Turning our backs on them is not who we are as a nation.
Standing Against Discriminatory Immigration Policies
Past discriminatory immigration policies—including the Muslim Travel Ban—sent a message that America turns away people based on faith and nationality, rather than focusing on true security threats.
I fought against the Trump Administration’s travel bans, which unfairly targeted Muslim-majority countries and separated families under the guise of national security. Moving forward, I will:
Continue fighting religious and racial discrimination in immigration policy
Hold the government accountable for unjust immigration enforcement
Oppose any future efforts to ban individuals based on their religion or country of origin
The U.S. must remain a beacon of hope and freedom for all who seek a better life.
My Commitment to Immigration Reform
I will continue to fight for:
A fair and humane pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants
Stronger protections for DREAMers and immigrant families
Smart border security solutions that don’t criminalize communities
Expanded legal immigration opportunities to meet our workforce needs
An end to discriminatory immigration policies and travel bans
Our immigration system should reflect our values as a nation—one that welcomes diversity, strengthens our economy, and provides opportunities for those seeking a better future.