Photo: AFP
Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (D-IL) is facing blowback for comments she made at an event in Mexico recently. Speaking to a crowd, she said in Spanish that she's a "proud Guatemalan before I'm an American."
This has generated huge amounts of outrage, primarily from conservatives, with some suggesting this could be tantamount to treason. Others are saying that she should at least be facing expulsion from Congress for the comment.
Political strategist Nick Lindquist agreed that she should be removed, saying, "You swore an oath to the United States. If you are not identifying yourself as an American first and foremost, then you should not be in Congress."
The good news is, Lindquist thinks this could provide an opportunity to discuss the possible need for major reforms when it comes to congressional eligibility. He said, "I think the rules that apply to the president should apply to the House and Senate as well." That would mean anyone elected to Congress would have to be a natural-born citizen. He also suggested ending dual citizenship for elected officials.
So will we actually see any of that happen? Lindquist doesn't expect this to end Rep. Ramirez's time in Congress. He says, "I think at most she might be censured by the House, which is essentially a slap on the wrist. I don't see her being removed."
He did say that this could lead to a deep dive into her family history, which appears to be questionable. According to reports, her husband is an illegal alien and DACA recipient, and her parents may have also immigrated illegally into the U.S. shortly before she was born.