Out of Washington, Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement after voting against a resolution today in the U.S. House to oppose a national emergency declaration issued by President Donald Trump:

“Just as every president since Jimmy Carter has done, President Trump is rightfully exercising his ability to declare a national emergency to protect our border. The crisis on the southern border impacts every corner of our country through crime, human trafficking, drugs and a basic disregard for the rule of law."

Rep. Estes continued, "Rather than President Trump needing to declare an emergency to protect our country, Congress, led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, should have done its job to provide increased border security. However, I support the president’s actions to address this crisis and will continue working with President Trump and Congress to further secure the border and fulfill our promises to the American people."

Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas’ 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.