Arizona Senate Democrats: Trump Administration’s Lawsuit Is Another Baseless Attack on Dreamers

PHOENIX –  Arizona Senate Democrats are pushing back against the Trump administration’s lawsuit challenging Arizona’s voter-approved in-state tuition policy, calling it another baseless attack on Dreamers and an attempt to create more barriers for young people who have spent years building their lives and contributing to their communities. 

“Dreamers have spent years overcoming obstacle after obstacle just to have the opportunity to contribute to the communities they call home,” said Senate Democratic Leader Priya Sundareshan. “This is just the latest attempt to put another barrier in their way. Arizona is following the law, and Arizona voters have already made their voices clear. We should be helping young Arizonans succeed, not making it harder for them to build a future here.” 

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has determined that the voter-approved policy complies with federal law because eligibility is based on whether a student attended and graduated from an Arizona high school, not residency. 

“Dreamers grew up here. They go to school here, work here, pay taxes and contribute to our communities,” said Assistant Democratic Leader Catherine Miranda. “They should not have to keep fighting just to be recognized as part of the communities they have called home for most of their lives. This lawsuit is another distraction from the real issues facing families and another attack on immigrant communities.”

“Arizona voters spoke, and they chose to invest in students who went to school and graduated here,” said Senate Democratic Whip Rosanna Gabaldón. “Arizona should have the right to decide what educational policies work for Arizona. We should be opening doors for young people who want to go to college, work hard and contribute, not letting the federal government close them.”

“This administration continues to target people who are simply trying to build a better life in the country they call home,” said Senate Democratic Chair Lela Alston. “To Arizona’s Dreamers: we see you, we recognize your contributions and we will continue fighting for your opportunity to succeed. You belong here.”

Arizona Senate Democrats will continue standing with Dreamers, supporting Arizona’s voter-approved in-state tuition policy and defending Arizona’s ability to make educational decisions that serve Arizona communities.