Rep. Ocasio-Cortez Draws Fire Over Immigration Rights Webinar
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) is facing political heat over her participation in a February immigration webinar designed to educate attendees on their legal rights during encounters with ICE. The bilingual event, conducted in English and Spanish, featured legal experts who outlined key rights such as the ability to remain silent and the legal requirement for agents to present a warrant before entering a home.
Ocasio-Cortez emphasized that the webinar aimed to provide accurate, essential information and connect vulnerable communities with pro bono legal resources. Her office also distributed materials on privacy waivers and accessing legal aid.
However, the event sparked backlash from former Trump immigration official Tom Homan, who accused the congresswoman of potentially obstructing law enforcement and called for a Department of Justice investigation. In response, Ocasio-Cortez cited her First Amendment rights and formally requested clarification from the DOJ—though no response has been issued.
Supporters argue that her efforts amount to a vital public service, while critics question whether the initiative was politically motivated. As of now, no formal investigation has been announced.
Comments