I have sent countless letters to Benjamin Cardin (D-MD) imploring him to vote in favor of the legal citizens of Maryland and our country. He never bothered to even acknowledge receipt. The last time I called his office re: DREAM Act, I expressed my outrage at his voting record and stated that he could at least feign interest in his constituents by responding to letters. I also mentioned that at least Mikulski replies (albeit canned).

I engaged in a lengthy conversation with the staffer who was obviously upset at my assertions. The staffer kept repeating that Cardin has genuine concern for the opinions of his constituents, and his failure to reply to my letters was an oversight (yeah, right).

Well lo and behold I received this email today (for what it’s worth). Maryland residents, please hammer both Cardin and Mikulski. They are both traitors and must be replaced.


Dear Ms. :

Thank you for writing to me about the Dream Act of 2007.

The DREAM Act (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act) , S. 2205, is a narrowly-tailored, bipartisan measure that was introduced by Senator Durbin (D-IL) , Senator Hagel (R-NE) and Senator Lugar (R-IN). On October 24, 2007, the Senate voted on whether to consider proceed to the DREAM Act. I voted in favor of this motion so that the Senate could debate this issue . The motion required the affirmative votes of 60 Senators for passage . T he measure failed by a vote of 52-44 , and the bill was effectively killed.

The DREAM Act would give a select group of undocumented students the chance to become permanent residents if they came to this country as children, are long-term U.S. residents, have good moral character, and enlist in the military or attend college for at least two years. Currently our immigration laws prevent thousands of young people from pursuing their dreams and fully contributing to our nation's future. Their parents brought them to the United States when they were young children and for many, America is the only home they know.

The children eligible for benefits under the DREAM Act have demonstrated the kind of determination and commitment that makes them successful students and points the way to the significant contributions they will make in their lives. This bill does not provide amnesty, in state tuition or other public assistance to these youths . It is designed to assist only a select group of young people who would be required to earn their way to legal status.

Again, thank you for writing to me regarding the Dream Act. If I can be of any further assistance please do not hesitate to contact me in the future.


Senator Ben Cardin - Do not reply to this message <senator@cardin.senate.gov>