U.S. Senate passes amendment to provide nearly $2 billion for US/Mexico border fence

the Washington Times--

The U.S. Senate in a 94-3 vote appropriated $2 billion from a $86.3 billion contingency fund included in its proposed 2007 budget yesterday voting to overwhelmingly to begin paying for the 370 miles of fencing and 500 miles of vehicle barriers on the US-Mexico border just three weeks after voting against the same spending.
The amendment's sponsor says senators were so embarrassed by that July 13 vote [with 66 senators switching from "no" to "yes"] that they felt that they had to reverse course and vote for it this time.

" But the Guard's presence has led to a 25 percent drop in apprehensions at the border compared with the same time last year, suggesting the troops are having success in preventing illegal aliens from trying to cross. "

However, the good news about the reduction of 25% in apprehensions was tapered by the report that found Department of Homeland security employees were fooled by counterfeit driver's license in nine different cast by undercover investigator said US border crossings.

"The record is clear: for more than five years, the president has failed to secure our borders and to enforce our immigration laws," said House Majority Leader Nancy Pelosi.

The administration insists that Congress pass a broad bill that includes a guest worker program and a path to citizenship for illegal aliens according to White House spokesman Tony Snow.
"I think were increasing awareness in both houses of Congress that there is the proper way to proceed," Mr. Snow said what, they're finally getting the picture there were being invaded? Politicians!

"The voice of the American people is beginning to be heard, and there's been a sea-change in how people are thinking about some of these issues," said Senator Jeff sessions