Rep. Carlos Gimenez, who escaped the communist regime in his youth, introduced a resolution on Friday to remove Rep. Delia Ramirez, D-Ill., from the Homeland Security committee for violating her oath of office.
The resolution was prompted by Ramirez’s remarks in Spanish during an event in Mexico City where she stated, “I am a proud Guatemalan before I am an American.”
Gimenez, a Cuban refugee, emphasized his gratitude to the U.S. for providing him with opportunities to succeed in various roles, including as a member of Congress.
“Only in America,” said Gimenez, who is the sole Cuban-born member of Congress.
Gimenez argued that openly declaring allegiance to a foreign nation over the U.S. disqualifies someone from serving in certain federal government positions.
Blowback against Ramirez continued online, with critics questioning her loyalty and patriotism.
Ramirez defended herself, stating that she celebrates her Guatemalan-American roots and fights for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
She denounced the attacks as a tactic to silence her dissent and invalidate her criticisms of the current political environment.
Ramirez reaffirmed her commitment to using her voice and experiences to defend the rights of all Americans.
