Chippewa Valley Times

U.S. Representative Derrick Van Orden (R-WI) has expressed reservations about a proposed refugee resettlement in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. He cites the U.S. Department of State's failure to provide requested information on vetting procedures for the individuals as the reason for his hesitation. In a letter addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Van Orden sought details on the vetting procedures conducted on potential refugees, emphasizing the need for comprehensive information regarding their identities and countries of origin.

According to a press release from Van Orden's office, he expressed concern over the lack of response from the State Department: "The silence from the State Department is incredibly concerning. I have a responsibility to ensure the well-being of my constituents, and without the ability to review the information I requested, I cannot say with confidence that these individuals were fully vetted. We are a nation of laws, and we must ensure that those who wish to immigrate or resettle here do so legally and are not threats to the safety and security of the United States. Until I have the information I requested, I will not support this resettlement."

In his letter to Blinken, Van Orden stressed that American safety, particularly that of his constituents, was paramount among his priorities. He said he had engaged in discussions with various local authorities and community organizations about refugee resettlement. These included conversations with Eau Claire City Council President, Eau Claire County Sheriff Riewestahl, World Relief Wisconsin, and other community stakeholders. However, he noted there remained too many unknowns about specific details.

A report by WEAU 13 News revealed that a resolution authored by Allen Myren, a County Board Supervisor, calls for World Relief to conduct an independent economic impact study on taxpayer costs related to refugee resettlement. The resolution also seeks clarification on how the capacity for 75 primary resettlement refugees was determined and raises concerns about potential impacts on local resources and the quality of life for county residents. World Relief in the Chippewa Valley is actively involved in efforts to facilitate the arrival of 75 refugees to the region.

According to another report by WEAU 13 News, World Relief issued a statement saying, "We cannot speak on behalf of the federal government’s assignments for the U.S. refugee resettlement program, but we are committed to remaining in regular communication with county leaders and other community stakeholders."