An interview with Sen. Michael Bennet, a Democrat from Colorado, aired on Nov. 26, 2023.
MARGARET BRENNAN: We turn now to the senior Colorado Democratic Senator Michael Bennet. Good morning to you, Senator.
SENATOR MICHAEL BENNET: Good morning, Margaret.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Well, when Congress comes back from this break, they have a lot of work to do. I understand you are part of a small group who has worked during the break on this very tough issue regarding the US border, and President Biden’s requests for about $14 billion to help with it. Where do talks stand now?
SEN. BENNET: Well, I think there’s broad bipartisan support for getting the Ukraine funding done as part of this package. We’ve also discussed the humanitarian funding for Israel and Southeast Asia. Some Republicans have indicated a desire to see progress on the border in exchange for this, and we’ve had good conversations over the last few days trying to find a solution. I believe the events in Ukraine merit support without the need for negotiations on the US border, but we’re exploring options to reach a solution.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Is it still the case that the border needs to be bundled with Ukraine aid for it to go through the Republican-held House?
SEN. BENNET: Yes, and I believe the Ukrainian people have earned support without further conditions. However, it remains to be seen if this will be enough for the House. Our focus is on finding a solution.
MARGARET BRENNAN: If your leverage here is the border, what is the sticking point at this stage?
SEN. BENNET: There’s been discussion on including the Dreamers in the package, addressing asylum standards, and dealing with the issues created by criminal organizations involved in human smuggling. While I’d like to see the Dreamers included, the urgency of the Ukraine funding is our priority.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Do you have clear guidance from Leader Schumer on how he wants this to play out in the next few weeks?
SEN. BENNET: Leader Schumer and I have been in constant contact, and the urgency of the situation is widely understood among Democrats and Republicans.
MARGARET BRENNAN: On the other conflict with Israel and Hamas, are you asking for conditions to be placed on aid to Israel?
SEN. BENNET: We’re likely to have a debate about this in the coming days. However, it’s crucial to ensure that while Israel defends itself against Hamas, it meets the highest standards and subscribes to the rule of law.
MARGARET BRENNAN: All right, Senator, we’ll continue to track the work you’re doing. We’ll be back in a moment.
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