“The United States was founded upon the belief that the pursuit of happiness is not a privilege but an inalienable right. Yesterday, immigrant students, families and brave soldiers serving in our military were stripped of their chance at the pursuit of happiness and the American dream.

“Our nation’s immigrants have contributed immeasurably to the legacy of this country and the federal government should have supported them with the passage of the DREAM Act. Instead, they turned their backs on those who have given so much and whose only hope is a chance at building a life in this country.

“Thousands of young men and women want to fulfill their own personal American dream. They simply want the same thing immigrants have sought for decades, and they have been denied this priceless opportunity.

“Yesterday’s vote against the DREAM Act contradicts the democratic principles and values upon which this country was founded. It is disappointing and disheartening, but our efforts at immigration reform will not end here.”