Democratic Representative Shri Thanedar from Michigan found himself in conflict with former President Donald Trump recently, as he chose to stay seated during Trump’s congressional address honoring families affected by violent crimes committed by illegal immigrants.
In an intense discussion with Sean Hannity on FOX News, Thanedar voiced his dissatisfaction with the current administration’s immigration policies.
“I didn’t stand because he’s the president. Honestly, I’m just tired of him,” Thanedar stated during the segment.
Hannity countered, asserting, “There’s no way I would defend a family who lost a child, especially a case involving a 12-year-old girl who was raped and murdered. I can’t distance myself because I’m in politics.”
Thanedar further clarified, “I do not support this president. He was lying.” He accused Trump of using the tragedy for political gain.
In his speech, Trump recognized several victims, including Jocelyn Nungarai, who law enforcement alleges was killed by illegal immigrants. Many Democrats in attendance, including Jocelyn’s mother, Alexis Nungarai, remained seated while victims’ families were acknowledged.
Later on “Hannity,” Nungarai condemned the Democrats’ response to the situation, labeling it “disgraceful.”
She expressed disappointment that many Democrats chose not to show support or applause for what Trump was attempting to accomplish. “It’s quite shameful for us as Americans to have them in Congress,” she remarked.
During the Friday broadcast, Hannity repeatedly pressed Thanedar to disclose whether he had reached out to families of victims killed by illegal immigrants. Thanedar responded, insisting he regularly converses with voters, claiming they feel “exposed to terrorism by ICE.”
Thanedar considered bringing articles of impeachment against Trump related to his calls for the deportation of an alleged gang member and proposed abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Recently, Thanedar introduced legislation aimed at dismantling ICE, stating he believes the agency cannot be reformed. In a press release, his office characterized the move as part of a shift towards a “more humane approach to immigration policy.”
These remarks emerged amid growing criticism of ICE from activists and leading Democrats, particularly following the deadly encounter involving immigration agents and Minneapolis resident Renee Nicole Good earlier this month.
