8 Reactions to President Trump's Speech to Congress

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Wednesday, March 01, 2017

3. Samuel Rodriguez

Rev. Samuel Rodriguez on the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission panel on 'Hobby Lobby and the Future of Religious Liberty,' at the Southern Baptist Convention, Baltimore, Maryland, June 9, 2014. — Rev. Samuel Rodriguez on the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission panel on "Hobby Lobby and the Future of Religious Liberty," at the Southern Baptist Convention, Baltimore, Maryland, June 9, 2014. | (Photo: The Christian Post/Sonny Hong)

The Reverend Samuel Rodriguez, president of National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, called on Trump to embrace comprehensive immigration reform, in a statement emailed to supporters Tuesday night.

"It is evident immigration reform continues to be a divisive issue that needs to be addressed in a comprehensive way," he said.

Rodriguez also said that Trump's speech reflected the hopes many Americans have for their future.

"Americans are hoping for a change of direction, for real solutions to the many issues plaguing our country, and for a better, stronger and more prosperous future," stated Rodriguez.

"President Trump's speech reflected that hope, and now we wait to see what can be accomplished by both the White House and the Congress toward these commonly shared goals."

Rodriguez also stated that various parts of the president's speech showcased areas where the NHCLC and the administration share common ground.

"During this time, the NHCLC will continue to work with the administration to make progress on the priorities of Latino Evangelicals including the issues of life, religious liberty, education equality, immigration reform and racial unity," continued Rodriguez.