Democratic Strategist Fears Trump's Speech Targets Immigrants

Democratic strategist Maria Cardona expressed concerns that former President Trump's Republican National Convention (RNC) speech instilled fear among her immigrant friends. Cardona received a surge of text messages from friends fearing for their safety after Trump's address. She emphasized the heightened anxiety felt by immigrants living in rural, conservative areas.

Democratic strategist Maria Cardona voiced apprehensions that former President Trump's RNC speech has emboldened anti-immigrant sentiment. Cardona received numerous text messages from immigrant friends expressing fear for their well-being following Trump's address.

Democratic Strategist Fears Trump's Speech Targets Immigrants

During an appearance on CNN, Cardona shared the messages she received from friends, stating, "Oh my God, Donald Trump just put a target on my family's back." She expressed her own concerns as an immigrant Latina, stating, "As an immigrant Latina myself, I feel that way too."

Cardona emphasized the heightened anxiety among immigrants residing in conservative areas. "If I lived in Texas, or in some other rural, red area and my kids were out speaking Spanish—I would be in fear of their life for the words that Donald Trump spoke last night and that is what is at stake," she said.

Democratic Strategist Fears Trump's Speech Targets Immigrants

Trump's RNC speech focused heavily on illegal immigration, which he referred to as a "massive invasion" responsible for "misery, crime, poverty, disease and destruction to communities all across our land." He also advocated for border closure and the completion of his proposed border wall.

Other speakers at the RNC further echoed these sentiments. Former acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) chief Tom Homan threatened increased deportations during a potential second Trump term. Signs advocating for "Mass Deportation Now!" were displayed on the convention floor.

Democratic Strategist Fears Trump's Speech Targets Immigrants

Cardona's concerns align with the rhetoric employed by Trump and his supporters, which has been linked to an increase in hate crimes against immigrants. Her personal experience as an immigrant provides insights into the fear and anxiety felt by many within the immigrant community.

While the Biden administration has pledged to address border security and immigration reform, Republicans have been accused of obstructing progress. The administration faces an unprecedented crisis at the southern border, which it attributes to a hemispheric crisis requiring congressional funding and immigration reform.

Cardona's fears highlight the deep divisions that continue to plague the nation on issues of immigration. Her concerns underscore the importance of fostering a climate of inclusiveness and standing against divisive rhetoric that targets marginalized communities.