WASHINGTON, D.C. — The following is a statement from Ali Noorani, Executive Director of the National Immigration Forum:
“We condemn and are terribly saddened by yesterday’s attack in New York City. Our condolences and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones.
“The terrorist who committed this heinous act has been in the country for seven years and radicalized after he arrived. ‘Extreme vetting’ would not have stopped this attack.
“Our response should be to increase resources to counter violent extremism and make sure people are not succumbing to the influence of terrorist hate groups. Law enforcement and security officials must work and increase trust with any community at risk of radicalization, including Muslim communities and others.
“Rather than seeking to cut Department of Homeland Security funds for antiterror programs, President Trump should make sure local and federal law enforcement authorities have the resources they need to counter terrorism.”