Lawmaker Interviews

Republican to press Trump on Christian genocide asylum

A New Jersey Republican will ask the Trump administration to take action on providing relief for Christian genocide survivors fleeing the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

{mosads}Rep. Chris Smith’s (R-N.J.) bill — the Iraq and Syria Genocide Relief and Accountability Act of 2016 — would ensure government interviews for for Christians seeking asylum by creating a new category for groups persecuted by ISIS.

“Everyone will have to go through a vetting process,” Smith told The Hill of his legislation.

Smith said he is making the case to Trump transition officials including Vice President-elect Mike Pence, his former House colleague.

Watch the video above to hear Smith describe his measure.