Rep. Sylvia Garcia, a Democrat from Texas, sparked controversy during a press conference, where she expressed criticism towards ICE agents and suggested that they should not be allowed to defend themselves when attacked by criminals or illegal aliens.
Garcia's comments came in response to the death of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, an illegal alien from Mexico who attempted to run over ICE agents during a traffic stop and was fatally shot after ramming an ICE vehicle.
Garcia argued that the fatal shooting was unjustified, stating that ICE agents should have prioritized de-escalation tactics instead of using lethal force. She claimed that shooting the tires of the vehicle would have been a more appropriate response.
The representative also made a comment that suggested racial bias, stating that she, as a Latina, might be targeted by ICE agents. She claimed that her friends, but not necessarily she herself, might be stopped by ICE agents.
Garcia hosted the press conference alongside Rep. Al Green, activist groups, and an attorney for the Araujo family. Rep. Green echoed Garcia's sentiments, stating that Americans have an obligation to protect illegal aliens and that they should receive the same constitutional protection as U.S. citizens.
