Republican State Senator Ileana García, a key figure behind the "Latinas for Trump" movement, has expressed strong objections to President Donald Trump's immigration policies. She described recent measures to detain immigrants as "unacceptable and inhumane," signaling a break in her usual support and raising tensions in South Florida.
"I've always stood by Trump, through thick and thin. However, this is unacceptable and inhumane. (...) This isn't what we voted for," García stated during an appearance in Miami. Her comments come in response to news of federal agents from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carrying out large-scale raids, including in courthouses, with a daily target of 3,000 deportations set by Stephen Miller, Trump's chief immigration policy advisor.
The immigration sweeps have particularly alarmed communities, targeting immigrants with ongoing legal cases, including many Cubans and Venezuelans who supported Trump in the 2020 election. "I understand the need to deport criminals, but this is a witch hunt against law-abiding individuals who fear returning to their countries," García emphasized in a statement reported by the Miami Herald.
Ileana García, whose parents were Cuban refugees, served as a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security during Trump's first term and founded "Latinas for Trump" to galvanize Hispanic support for the president. Her remarks align with recent concerns raised by U.S. Representative María Elvira Salazar, who criticized the "uncertainty" these raids have stirred in her predominantly Hispanic district.
Salazar, alongside fellow Miami Republican Congress members Carlos Giménez and Mario Díaz-Balart, plans to meet with the Department of Homeland Security this week to address the ongoing crisis. The White House has defended the raids, asserting that deported immigrants receive proper legal processes. However, a study by UnidosUS indicates that 78% of Hispanics believe deportations should focus on dangerous criminals rather than established immigrants.
"I will continue to support the president, but I will speak out against what I see as unjust (...) This isn't about regrets; I have none. It's about tackling problems head-on and taking responsibility," García declared.
Understanding the Immigration Debate in the U.S.
What are the main criticisms of Trump's immigration policies?
Critics argue that the policies are inhumane and target law-abiding immigrants, creating fear and uncertainty within immigrant communities, especially among those with ongoing legal processes.
Who is Ileana García and what is her stance on immigration?
Ileana García is a Republican State Senator and co-founder of "Latinas for Trump." While she has been a long-time supporter of Trump, she opposes the current immigration measures, calling them inhumane and not representative of what her community voted for.
How have recent immigration raids affected communities in South Florida?
The raids have heightened tension and fear among immigrants, particularly those involved in legal proceedings, and have sparked criticism from local leaders and representatives who are concerned about the impact on their communities.