Vice President Joe Biden expressed optimism Wednesday night that Congress would pass immigration reform this session, reports Politico.
He spoke before a supportive crowd at the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies.
“My optimism isn’t based on any false notion. It’s based on my absolute firm belief the American heart has changed as well.”
The Vice President also tipped his cap to the late Senator Daniel Inouye, who he considered a mentor and a deeply respected lawmaker.
“And the vast majority of the American people understand the history and the journey of this great nation has always been fueled by immigrants who have fought for the right to come to America and fought for the right to be American citizens,” he said. “How many more Daniel K. Inouyes are among them, waiting for their chance to make unbelievable contributions to the country they love? Like Danny, who I knew and [loved], I believe there will be many.”
The China Daily described Biden’s tribute to Inouye as emotional.
“Equal treatment for Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders, the work Danny [Inouye] and so many of this generation did is on you. The job is not over,” Biden said.
Earlier Wednesday 15 Asian American Pacific Islander leaders met with President Obama at the White House.
You can read more about the Vice President’s appearance before the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies in Politico and the China Daily.
