Salazar says Trump’s immigration enforcement goes too far

Salazar challenges Trump

Republican Rep. María Elvira Salazar told President Donald Trump that parts of his immigration enforcement campaign have gone too far, creating a clear disagreement with him as she seeks reelection in her solidly Republican Miami district.

In a campaign advertisement reported by Fox News, Salazar warned Trump to be careful about the immigration advice he receives. She said Hispanic voters who helped return him to the White House in 2024 now feel betrayed.

Salazar said she was not calling for amnesty. Instead, she urged Trump to support a way for affected immigrants to live with dignity in the United States.

A record combining enforcement and legal status

Salazar’s congressional record includes support for stronger enforcement and for legislation offering legal status to some longtime noncitizens.

She voted for the Secure the Border Act in 2023 and the Laken Riley Act in 2025. The latter expanded immigration enforcement and required detention for certain undocumented immigrants accused of crimes.

Salazar has also backed the bipartisan Dignity Act, which would provide legal status to some immigrants who have lived in the country for an extended period. She is urging Trump to take a position on that legislation.

Voter opinion on immigration

On immigration, 56% were dissatisfied with his performance, a smaller share than on the economy or foreign policy.