Sen. Mark Kelly speaks out in support of Ducey Executive Order

Senator says he too has been pushing for more resources from the White House

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KYMA, KECY) - Sen. Mark Kelly, (D-Ariz.), voiced support for Gov. Doug Ducey's plans to deploy the Arizona National Guard to the state's southern border.

In a statement released Tuesday afternoon, Ducey writes:

“There is a crisis on the border and I have pushed the administration for the additional resources, staffing, transportation, and the testing necessary to provide a secure, orderly process that does not fall on Arizona communities. 

In visiting the Yuma Sector and speaking with Border Patrol and other local leaders, it’s clear that their resources and staffing are strained. There are important missions that the Arizona National Guard can perform at the border and the governor calling them up will provide assistance to both local law enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security. 

“I will continue working with the Governor, Border Patrol, and local leaders to secure the resources necessary for a response that prioritizes safety and public health.”

- Sen. Mark Kelly, (D-Ariz.)

Sen. Kelly visited Yuma County's border earlier this month and met with Mayor Doug Nicholls, as well as Yuma Sector Border Patrol Chief Chris Clem. During that trip, the Senator called on the Biden administration to do more to help border communities.

RELATED: Kelly calls for federal action to solve border situation

Sen. Kelly says he just spoke with Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas over the weekend about boosting manpower along the southern border.