President Donald Trump publicly criticized Florida Rep. Maria Salazar on Saturday, sharing 13 posts on Truth Social that condemned her recent immigration remarks and called for her to be primaried by Republicans.
The posts followed Salazar’s release of a campaign advertisement filmed outside the White House, in which she stated: “Mr. President, some of your immigration enforcement efforts have gone too far.” The ad argued that Trump’s policies had alienated Hispanic voters who helped secure his 2024 victory. In response, Trump amplified social media criticism of Salazar, including posts from anonymous users calling for her replacement in a future primary election.
Salazar, who represents Florida’s 27th congressional district, has faced a tightening race against Democratic challenger Eliott Rodriguez in November. Democrats’ potential gain in the district could limit Trump’s legislative flexibility in his final two years in office. Salazar’s office did not respond to a request for comment outside regular business hours.
Trump’s Criticism and Salazar’s Stance
Trump’s Truth Social posts included screenshots of social media reactions to Salazar’s ad, such as comments labeling her a “backstabber” and urging her removal. The president also shared a Washington Post article titled “A Miami Republican faces backlash after publicly giving Trump immigration advice,” which quoted local Republicans and a former GOP strategist criticizing her remarks.
Salazar’s immigration bill, titled the “Digndad” bill, proposes legalizing and importing up to 17 million migrants, with supporters arguing it would provide “cheap labor” for employers. In a September video, Salazar rebuked Trump’s mass deportation policies, stating: “The same Hispanics who helped you get to the White House in 2024 feel betrayed today.” She framed her bill as a dignified alternative to amnesty, comparing Trump’s potential legacy to Abraham Lincoln’s abolition of slavery.
Political and Policy Implications
Trump’s posts coincide with Salazar’s push for her immigration bill through a discharge petition, which could force a vote during the lame-duck session after the November election. The timing would allow retiring Republican lawmakers to advance the bill as a favor to business donors. Salazar’s campaign has emphasized her endorsement by Trump, who secured 81% of the vote in her August primary.
Critics of Salazar, including some Florida Republicans, argue her bill prioritizes foreign labor over domestic workers. Supporters, however, contend it addresses labor shortages while avoiding blanket amnesty. The debate reflects broader divisions within the GOP over immigration policy ahead of the 2024 elections.