Today, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is in Mexico to discuss a wide range of issues, including immigration, trade and security. Clinton’s visit is paving the way for high-profile visits from Atty. Gen. Eric Holder and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, culminating with President Barack Obama’s first trip to Mexico in mid-April.

While conversations with Mexican officials will undoubtedly focus on stabilizing the U.S.-Mexico border, immigration will also be a topic of discussion when it comes to addressing border security. Border communities have been encouraged by recent comments by President Obama regarding his commitment to seeking comprehensive immigration reform this year. A broad overhaul of our immigration system is essential to alleviating much of the stress and strain on the US-Mexico border by enabling immigrants to enter the country in a legal, orderly, and safe manner rather than risking lives with smuggling networks.

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