An immigrant mother currently held in a California detention center for undocumented individuals remains steadfast in her support for Donald Trump, the president responsible for the policy that now threatens to separate her from her family. Arpineh Masihi, originally from Iran and Armenia and the mother of four U.S. citizen children, was apprehended by ICE agents at her home despite having resided in the United States since the age of three.
“He's doing what's right. Many of these people don't deserve to be here,” she stated from the Adelanto detention center, where she is currently held. “I'll support him until the day I die.”
The Ironic Situation of a Trump-Supporting Immigrant Woman
Masihi, who was convicted of theft more than a decade ago, turned her life around after serving her time. She established a business, volunteered at her children's school, and built a family in Los Angeles. However, her past caught up with her in 2025. She was detained as part of the mass raids carried out by the Trump administration due to her undocumented status.
Meanwhile, her husband and children, all American citizens, wait at home, with a Trump flag waving in their yard. “I don't blame Trump, I blame Biden,” says her husband, Arthur Sahakyan, who is also convinced that the president's immigration policies are on the right track.
Arpineh emphasizes her love for America, asserting her identity as American despite lacking documentation. She hopes her recent good conduct and her role as a mother will be taken into account to prevent her deportation to her birth country, where she might face repercussions for being Christian.
“I have four citizen children. I haven’t done anything wrong for many years,” she stated. Her case has drawn international media attention, highlighting the flaws in the U.S. immigration system that does not easily forgive past mistakes, even when there is full integration and contribution to the community.
Arpineh’s story is not unique. As thousands of immigrants in the United States fear deportation, even those who support tough measures like Trump’s are not immune to their consequences.
Understanding the Complexities of Immigration Policies
What are the main reasons for Arpineh Masihi's detention?
Arpineh Masihi was detained due to her undocumented status, stemming from a past theft conviction over a decade ago. Despite having turned her life around, her immigration status became a target during mass raids by the Trump administration.
Why does Arpineh continue to support Trump despite her detention?
Arpineh believes that Trump is enforcing necessary immigration policies and feels that many individuals do not deserve to stay in the U.S. She maintains her loyalty to Trump, focusing blame elsewhere for her current situation.
How does Arpineh’s story highlight issues within the U.S. immigration system?
Arpineh’s case illustrates how the U.S. immigration system is unforgiving of past mistakes, even when individuals have fully integrated and contributed positively to society. It brings attention to the rigid nature of immigration policies that do not account for personal rehabilitation.