Eric Schmitt: “The American citizen should come first [in immigration…”

“This hearing turns on a simple question. When the choice is presented, alert federal immigration authorities and protect the community, or release the illegal alien. Who comes first? The American citizen should come first [in immigration policy decisions]. Every single time. Lake and Riley, Stephanie Mentor, Sheridan Gorman, Katie Abraham. They should come first. The American people have already answered that question. It's time for Congress to insist on the same.” (07:15–07:18)

This is an excerpt from a raw transcript. The assertions have not been audited or verified. Tap the video to view the source footage and understand the context.