I have never pretended to be a legal scholar, but when scores of lawyers are lining up to agree with the Supreme Court that the president has the power to make choices when it comes to whom to deport and whom to let stay, then I tend to agree with them.

Luis Gutierrez’s quote expresses his deference to legal experts on issues related to immigration policy and the executive power of the president. He acknowledges that he is not a legal scholar himself but highlights that numerous lawyers have supported the Supreme Court's stance that the president has the power to make decisions about deportation and who is allowed to stay in the country. By referencing the consensus of legal professionals, Gutierrez signals that his position is aligned with established legal interpretation, even though he does not claim to be an expert on the matter.

The key point in the quote is Gutierrez's trust in the legal system and the authority of the Supreme Court's interpretation of executive power. He emphasizes that, as a policymaker, he tends to rely on the insights of legal professionals, especially when there is a strong consensus supporting a particular view. His position on immigration is informed by the understanding that decisions about deportation and residency often fall within the discretion of the president, particularly in matters involving executive action like the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

Gutierrez’s statement also reflects his broader political stance on immigration reform and deportation practices. As a long-time advocate for immigrant rights, he has supported policies that offer protection to individuals facing deportation, especially for undocumented immigrants who have lived in the U.S. for years. His quote underscores his trust in legal precedent while reinforcing his commitment to immigration justice, even when the issue is complex or controversial.

The origin of this quote likely stems from Gutierrez’s work as a U.S. Representative and his outspoken advocacy for immigrant communities. During his time in office, he frequently weighed in on issues of immigration and executive authority, often in the context of the Obama administration’s efforts to protect undocumented immigrants through executive orders. This quote reflects his pragmatic approach to policy, relying on the legal consensus to back his support for the president’s power in immigration decisions.