Event kicks off legislation to build border fence
 

Event kicks off legislation to build border fence
State Sen. Steve Smith (R-Maricopa) gets passionate when he talks about the need for a fence along the Arizona-Mexico border.
“The lack of a border fence is not just the biggest problem facing Arizona, but for the country,” he said. “It’s not just illegal aliens, it’s also gangs, terrorists and drug cartels.
Then he spouts(it is obvious that this writer did not agree with what Smith was trying to do or he would not have used the word "spouts" in the article, this is not journalistic integrity) a couple statistics: Half of all illegal aliens and 90 percent of all illegal drugs come into the country across the Arizona border.
“We have to do something or it will destroy this country,” he said.
The senator decided he’s not going to wait for the federal government to build a fence. Instead, he’s sponsored a bill approved in April to construct a barrier along Arizona’s 650-mile portion of the border.
Smith said he doesn't know yet what the fence would be built from or how much it would cost. Those logistics, he said, would be determined by how much money will ultimately be raised.
On July 20, Smith is holding an event in Casa Grande to launch a website Smith will use to collect donations to build the fence.
Two prominent Arizona Republicans, Senate President Russell Pearce (R-Mesa) and Attorney General Tom Horne, are scheduled to attend the event, which will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Tommy's Bistro, 913 E. Eighth St.
The cost is $50 and a light dinner will be served. Tickets are still available by calling 360-708-3899.