Washington, DC – In response to President Barack Obama’s immigration announcement, DNC Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement:

“I'm proud President Obama has taken bold, definitive action to enact meaningful change for so many families living in fear of being torn apart, an action which will also serve to boost our economy. This is a real step towards protecting families and our national security while optimizing our resources and improving as much of the immigration system as he legally can while Republicans in Congress refuse to act.

“The American people are sick and tired of the GOP's stall and scare tactics. While men, women and children who have already sacrificed so much for a better life waited anxiously, Republicans in Congress sat back and refused to act.

“This is not a political issue, it's a human issue. President Obama knows that so many undocumented people living in the United States simply can't wait any longer for the protections they deserve. Instead of threatening to shut down the government and impeach the President — Republicans in Congress should immediately rise to the occasion and act to pass comprehensive immigration reform.”