Several Democratic lawmakers, including members of the progressive “Squad,” came under fire this week for remarks made during an international leftist gathering in Mexico City, where one congresswoman declared she was prouder to be Guatemalan than American.
The second annual Panamerican Congress, which brought together leftist politicians from across the Western Hemisphere, included Reps. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., Summer Lee, D-Pa., Jesús “Chuy” García, D-Ill., and Delia Ramirez, D-Ill.—all members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
During her address, Ramirez spoke in Spanish and said, “I’m a proud Guatemalan before I’m an American.” She went on to accuse the United States of pursuing “imperialism, militarization, conquest, control, competition in its attempt at domination.”
According to her official biography, Ramirez is the daughter of Guatemalan immigrants and is currently married to a man residing in the United States illegally. Her website states she is the only sitting member of Congress “in a mixed-status marriage” and advocates for the legalization of millions of unlawful immigrants, including her husband.
The remarks quickly drew criticism from national leaders who accused the lawmakers of promoting anti-American sentiment abroad.
“These Democrats’ comments are despicable and underscore their commitment to putting Americans last,” said White House Assistant Press Secretary Liz Huston in a statement. “In stark contrast, President Trump is working tirelessly to secure peace deals, deport illegal alien criminals, and advance America’s interests at home and abroad.”
The White House also criticized what it described as “radical globalist rhetoric” from members of Congress who frequently oppose immigration enforcement and border security.
The Panamerican Congress promotes open borders and hemispheric integration among left-wing governments and politicians, often in opposition to U.S. sovereignty and enforcement priorities. It remains unclear whether congressional leadership will issue any formal response to the lawmakers’ remarks.
The event comes as President Trump continues to prioritize deportations and immigration reforms while drawing a clear contrast with the Congressional Progressive Caucus, which has consistently backed sanctuary policies and called for defunding enforcement agencies like ICE.
Ramirez has not walked back her comments, and no official apology has been issued.
