Illinois Democrat Delia Ramirez faced significant backlash online this week after making a statement expressing her pride in being Guatemalan over her pride in being American. “I’m Guatemala, which I’m proud of before I become an American,” she proclaimed in Spanish during the Panamerican Conference in Mexico City over the weekend.
This comment stirred a wave of anger among many conservatives on social media, prompting accusations that her loyalty as a lawmaker is misplaced. Utah Senator Mike Lee questioned, “Are you happy with this?” on social media.
Actor James Woods shared a sarcastic remark, suggesting people should speak freely in Congress. Meanwhile, New York GOP Representative Claudia Tenney pointed out the embarrassing nature of such statements, criticizing Democrats for not prioritizing America. Charlie Kirk, a conservative commentator, remarked that Congress lacks individuals who value the United States.
Fox News contributor Jonathan Turley noted that the outrage towards Ramirez is less about her identity and more about her perceived detachment from American values. This discussion even drew attention from the Department of Homeland Security, which referenced a quote from Theodore Roosevelt that emphasized loyalty to the United States.
Ohio Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy expressed shock at a member of Congress prioritizing another country, stating that if one’s loyalty lies elsewhere, they shouldn’t have the authority to legislate for Americans. Similarly, conservative commentator Matt Walsh argued for serious repercussions, claiming her statement warranted arrest and deportation.
Amidst the furor, Ramirez, who serves on the House Committee on Homeland Security, stated her belief that the U.S. often engages in “imperialism, militarization, conquest, domination, and attempts to dominate.” On her website, she identifies as a child of immigrant parents and claims to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform, particularly for dreamers like her husband, Boris, who is in a mixed-status marriage.
In a statement released through her office, Ramirez defended her comments, asserting that honoring her Guatemalan ancestry actually strengthens her commitment to America. “That’s the truth I always carry with me, and many Americans do as well,” she argued, adding that denying this respect for diverse heritage reveals the fragility of others’ views on American identity.
