Connecticut Leaders Say Trump's Immigration Order is 'Illegal,' Rally Draws Hundreds

Connecticut’s leading politicians are criticizing President Donald Trump’s executive order on immigration. U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., offered an emotional response to Trump’s action on Sunday.

“Thinking of how sad and ashamed my dad would be — a proud American citizen who fled Nazi persecution — to see refugee ban based on religious hate and fear,” Blumenthal said on social media.

“Only real solution — President Trump tear up this immoral order. Court action so far is limited stopgap. Fight goes on. #NoMuslimBan,” Blumenthal said on Twitter.

U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., said “The law is clear. The #MuslimBan is illegal. I will introduce a bill this week to immediately overturn this dangerous, hateful order.”

A protest of Trump’s travel ban was held at Bradley International Airport Sunday afternoon and drew several hundred people.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy today released the following statement in reaction to public protests regarding President Donald Trump's Executive Order entitled "Protection of the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States":

"I applaud those taking action today for seeking to give voice to fairness and compassion. I also applaud the swift legal action taken yesterday by the American Civil Liberty Union and other advocates on behalf of not just those directly impacted by this order, but on behalf of all Americans. This executive order conflicts with rights guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States, and it must be contested in our courts. As a nation of immigrants, inclusivity and compassion are the hallmarks of who we are. We will not abandon our values. In the face of grave injustice, we will be neither silent nor idle, but stand ready to protect our neighbors and communities."

• For in-depth coverage and the latest news on the immigration issues see this related story: Immigration Turmoil Full Coverage: Orders, Detainees, Confusion and Protests

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