In a surprising turn of events, Republican Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar has openly criticized President Donald Trump over his immigration policies, just weeks before the crucial midterm elections. This move is particularly unusual given that Salazar and Trump belong to the same political party and he has endorsed her for re-election.
Sean Foreman, a Political Science professor at Barry University, commented on this development to CBS News Miami. He highlighted Salazar's bold step of using her initial 2026 general election campaign ad to directly challenge Trump's immigration strategies.
Salazar, who is campaigning for re-election in Florida's 27th District, released a 30-second advertisement on Thursday. In it, she argued that some of Trump's immigration control measures have "gone too far," cautioning about their potential impact on Hispanic voters.
"Mr. President, some of your immigration policies have gone too far," the congresswoman stated, noting that in July, about half of the 50,000 detainees had no criminal records. She also issued a political warning to Trump, saying, "The very Hispanics who helped you reach the White House in 2024 now feel betrayed."
This message resonates deeply given the demographic makeup of Salazar's constituency, where nearly three-quarters are Hispanic, according to Census data cited by CBS News. In the 2024 presidential election, Trump secured approximately 57% of the vote in that district, compared to around 42% for Kamala Harris.
Foreman suggests that Salazar's ad aims to win over independent and moderate voters discontented with Trump's immigration policies, especially in South Florida. Decisions like ending TPS for Venezuelans and Haitians have directly impacted many families in the region.
This campaign ad raises the stakes by publicly addressing these differences and directly holding the president accountable, despite Salazar's alignment with Trump on other policies, such as his stance on Cuba.
Salazar's Democratic opponent, former CBS News Miami anchor Eliott Rodriguez, used the controversy to question her record. Rodriguez argued that while Salazar presents herself as an immigrant advocate, her voting history doesn't always reflect that stance.
According to Foreman, this strategy poses political risks, as Trump had given his "complete and total endorsement" to Salazar's re-election in February. "We know how Donald Trump responds to criticism. He doesn't take it lightly and often retaliates with harsher critiques," Foreman noted.
As of now, Trump has not publicly responded to Salazar's ad.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) quickly reacted, dismissing Salazar's claims and reaffirming its commitment to Trump's promised immigration policy. "Under President Trump's leadership and Secretary Mullin, there will be NO amnesty for illegal immigrants. Not now, not ever," a DHS spokesperson stated in a response to Fox News, shared by journalist Bill Melugin.
The DHS further emphasized that ICE agents are enforcing laws passed by Congress, regardless of Salazar's stance. The department continues to prioritize what it calls the largest deportation campaign in U.S. history, ruling out any general leniency for undocumented individuals.
Conservative circles have also voiced criticism. Commentator Tomi Lahren urged Trump to withdraw his political support for Salazar, labeling her stance as a "betrayal" to the president and his supporters.
Salazar's disagreements with the administration's immigration policies aren't new. She has long advocated for increased border security paired with legalization pathways for immigrants who have been in the U.S. for years, are employed, pay taxes, and have no criminal records.
Key Questions on Salazar's Immigration Stance and Its Implications
Why did María Elvira Salazar criticize Trump's immigration policies?
Salazar criticized Trump's immigration policies, arguing they have gone too far and could negatively affect Hispanic voters, who are a significant part of her constituency.
What risks does Salazar face by challenging Trump?
By challenging Trump, Salazar risks losing his endorsement and facing backlash from his supporters, as Trump is known for reacting strongly to criticism.
How has the Department of Homeland Security responded to Salazar's claims?
The DHS dismissed Salazar's claims, affirming their commitment to Trump's immigration policy and stating there would be no amnesty for illegal immigrants.