In a sharp critique of current immigration policies and media narratives, Texas Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne said that recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Houston reveal the scale of criminal activity among some illegal immigrants. During a televised discussion, she highlighted that ICE arrested more than 3,500 criminal illegal aliens in Houston, Texas, in just six weeks during what she described as the Democratic shutdown.

Officials at the Department of Homeland Security released the criminal records of several individuals apprehended. The list includes offenses such as aggravated intentional homicide, repeated sexual assault of children, gang-related crimes involving MS-13 members, alien smuggling, kidnapping, burglary, illegal weapons possession, aggravated sexual assault of minors, and multiple charges of driving while intoxicated.

Van Duyne argued that despite such alarming cases, many Texas Democrats continue to support policies that shield illegal immigrants, even those involved in serious crimes. According to her, these individuals have become a new political constituency for some Democrats, at the expense of community safety.

She praised the work of ICE officers in Houston, describing them as heroes who are protecting American communities despite facing increased political pressure and even targeted attacks. The Congresswoman noted that similar successful operations have taken place in San Antonio, particularly against members of groups like Tren de Aragua. She emphasized that such actions reflect the priorities of the Trump administration and align with what American voters expect regarding border security.

A significant portion of the interview focused on what Van Duyne described as widespread misinformation in mainstream media regarding immigration enforcement. She argued that false claims – such as suggestions that ICE raids schools, which she says has never happened – have influenced public opinion, especially among Latino voters. Polling data cited from CNN shows that former President Donald Trump has seen his support among Latino voters drop sharply over the year, a change Van Duyne attributes partly to misleading narratives about immigration.

Drawing from her experience as the former mayor of Irving, Texas, she explained that her city had one of the highest per-capita deportation rates of criminal illegal aliens. She said that removing criminal offenders actually protected migrant communities the most, as they were often the primary victims of crimes committed by illegal immigrants. This enforcement, she said, helped Irving become the fifth-safest city in the country.

Van Duyne emphasized the need to communicate clearly that lawful enforcement of immigration protects all communities, especially migrants who seek safety and stability. She added that deporting criminals is essential for building trust and ensuring public safety.

In the closing segment, the discussion turned to immigration reform. The Congresswoman reiterated her support for a merit-based immigration system, a proposal long promoted by Trump. She argued that the United States should prioritize immigrants who can contribute to the workforce and fill key labor shortages, such as in construction or specialized professions. She also supported the idea that prospective immigrants should be able to speak English, aligning with Trump's long-standing position.

Van Duyne expressed optimism that under the current administration, meaningful immigration reform could finally advance. She pointed out that several bills have already been introduced and stressed the importance of a policy framework that matches American economic needs with immigrants who are prepared to contribute productively.

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This news article is based on publicly available statements and a YouTube transcript. The content reflects the views expressed by the individuals in the original source and is presented for informational and reporting purposes only. The article does not endorse any political viewpoint and aims to provide an objective summary for readers.