White House Cites Senate Inaction on McAleenan as 'Obstruction' by Democrats
White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders singled out the nomination of Acting CBP Commissioner Kevin McAleenan for permanent commissioner as an example of "the historic obstruction of Senate Democrats." Sanders discussed the issue before taking questions during a March 1 press briefing. "Two-hundred and seventy-six days ago, Kevin McAleenan was nominated to be commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection," she said, according to a readout of the briefing. "Kevin’s primary responsibility would be to help safeguard American borders, keeping both terrorists and their weapons out of our nation, all while facilitating lawful international trade."
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McAleenan was twice nominated and twice approved by the Senate Finance Committee (see 1801170046 and 1801050008). Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer "should stop putting the safety and security of the American people at risk and immediately confirm him," Sanders said. Asked about the comments, a CBP spokesman emailed that McAleenan "is ready to serve as U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner upon Senate confirmation.” Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Schumer didn't comment.