Florida Republican Urges Trump to Normalize Longtime US Immigrants

Florida Rep. Carlos Giménez (R) urged President Trump on Sunday to prioritize “normalizing” the status of long-term U.S. immigrants as the administration faces backlash over its aggressive deportation policies. Speaking to reporters, Giménez emphasized that while criminal immigrants and gang members should not remain in the country, the focus should shift to addressing those with active deportation orders. His remarks come amid growing public and political pressure over the administration’s immigration enforcement strategies, which critics argue disproportionately affect families and nonviolent offenders.

Giménez, a vocal advocate for a pragmatic approach to immigration, highlighted the need for a balanced solution that addresses security concerns while acknowledging the contributions of established immigrant communities. His comments reflect a broader debate within Republican ranks, where some lawmakers seek to distance themselves from hardline policies seen as alienating moderate voters and business interests. The call for normalization aligns with ongoing efforts to craft legislative pathways for undocumented immigrants who have deep ties to the U.S., though such proposals face significant opposition from conservative factions within the party. The administration has yet to respond directly to Giménez’s proposal, but his stance underscores the tension between enforcement priorities and the political calculus of maintaining bipartisan support.