MIAMI, Fla. (CBS12) — A South Florida Republican is publicly breaking with the president over immigration enforcement, warning him in a new campaign ad that some of his efforts “have gone too far.”
Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, R-Fla., also tells President Donald Trump in the ad that Hispanic voters who helped elect him in 2024 “feel betrayed today.” Salazar represents Florida’s 27th Congressional District, which is about 74% Hispanic according to census data.
“In July, 50% of the 50,000 people that were detained had no criminal record,” Salazar says in the ad. She then warns Trump to “be careful what your advisers are telling you about immigration policy.”
Salazar says she is not calling for amnesty, but instead a “dignified life” for immigrants.
She had previously pushed for changes to the immigration system and is a co-sponsor of the bipartisan Dignity Act, which would create a pathway to legal status for certain undocumented immigrants who have been in the country for more than five years while requiring them to work and pay restitution.
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The ad drew a direct response from Trump on Friday.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said he is “very strong on the borders” while Salazar is not.
“She’s a nice person. I got her elected. Without me she wouldn’t have gotten elected,” Trump said, crediting his endorsement with helping Salazar win her seat.
Trump said Salazar has become “a little bit softer on the border,” adding, “I understand that, but I just don’t happen to be there.”
The exchange comes as Salazar seeks reelection in South Florida and publicly challenges Trump on one of his signature policy issues.