Kansas Governor Maintains Opposition To Syrian Refugees, But Welcomes Others

Stephen Koranda

Gov. Sam Brownback is sticking with his decision not to allow state agencies to help relocate Syrian refugees to Kansas. In recent weeks, faith leaders have asked the governor to reconsider under the religious ideals of compassion for those in need.

Brownback says in an interview that he maintains his concern terrorists could infiltrate the U.S. with the refugees.

“Along with compassion, there’s the virtue of prudence. I would be happy to take more refugees from other parts of the world. Bring in people from Myanmar or Congo that don’t have a similar security concern,” Brownback says.

Religious leaders have argued there is already security screening in place for refugees, but Brownback says that process is not adequate when it comes to Syrian refugees.

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Stephen Koranda is the managing editor of the Kansas News Service, based at KCUR. He has nearly 20 years of experience in public media as a reporter and editor.
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