Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright had some stern words for President Donald Trump on Sunday. In an interview with CNN, she declared his recent travel ban to be out of line with American values, arguing that welcoming immigrants is part of who we are as Americans.
Daring to defy The Donald with logic, she questioned the mentality around shutting people out to ensure American safety. She also expressed concerns about the global consequences of the ban.
Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright on President Trump’s travel ban: “I think it's just flat anti-American” https://t.co/3fQJnsLeHx pic.twitter.com/XlF4ISo20u
— CNN (@CNN) January 31, 2017
Albright made her disapproval very clear from the beginning, saying:
“In many ways it’s anti-American and what this country stands for.”
She noted that America is a nation of immigrants who sought safety and prosperity, and that we can continue that tradition by granting political asylum to those who need it now. Clearly disturbed by Trump’s plans for America, she told CNN:
“We are a country that’s been created and populated by people from other countries. The Statue of Liberty’s message is, in fact, one of open arms and welcoming people. I do think that there are tears in the eyes of the statue at the moment.”
Albright also expressed disbelief at the lack of organization when it came to the travel ban, criticizing the leaders responsible. She didn’t pull any punches when she described how the ban was planned and carried out, saying:
“It has not made America safer. Let me just say, I think this is the most unprepared plan I’ve ever seen in terms of the lack of coordination with other parts of the government. We’re seeing every hour that other departments were in fact, not notified.”
The former Secretary of State ended her comment with some serious shade:
“It would be useful if the people at the top of our government actually read The Constitution.”
Trump’s immigration ban has sparked outrage around the world. Thousands of people have protested outside American airports and celebrities have used their spotlight to bring attention to the issue. It’s clear to see that leaders and activists everywhere are not taking this issue lying down.
Featured image from Twitter video.