Rep. Delia Ramirez, a Democrat from Illinois and a member of the House Border Patrol and Enforcement Subcommittee, spoke again to left-leaning groups in Mexico City over the weekend. This followed a three-day meeting that included discussions with former M-19 terrorists in Colombia.
Last week, Ramirez called for refunds from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. In a statement reported by the Los Angeles Times, she indicated that U.S. lawmakers are working on a treaty aimed at addressing diverse challenges across the Western Hemisphere, which include issues like the climate crisis, poverty, political violence, and immigration.
During her speech, Ramirez emphasized her identity, declaring in Spanish, “I am a Guatemalan who is proud before I became an American.”
This strong focus on foreign identity led to significant backlash among Democratic lawmakers who felt it prioritized other nations over domestic concerns.
Ramirez isn’t just any American; she was born in the U.S. to a Guatemalan mother and is married to Boris Hernandez, a recipient of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).
The Department of Homeland Security responded to this controversy by quoting President Theodore Roosevelt, highlighting the disconnect between Ramirez’s remarks and traditional views on American identity.
White House spokesperson Liz Houston criticized Ramirez’s comments, labeling them as “sleazy” and asserting that they reflect a commitment to keeping Americans safe. She contrasted this with former President Trump’s efforts to maintain order and security.
Ramirez did not shy away from her views, suggesting that the attacks against her were an attempt to silence differing opinions. She argued that celebrating her Guatemalan roots should not be seen as a betrayal and reiterated her dual identity as both an immigrant’s daughter and an American.
Her legislative history shows a willingness to prioritize foreign interests over American concerns. For instance, she opposed bills intended to prevent non-citizen voting and enhance border security.
In reaction to her stance, some lawmakers suggested that if she feels more aligned with Guatemalan interests, perhaps she should return there. Ramirez maintained that her identity encompasses both her Guatemalan heritage and her American nationality, stating, “I came from both Guatemala and Chicago, Illinois.”
As the political landscape evolves, Ramirez’s remarks reflect a broader debate about identity and loyalty within American politics.
