District 7A Del. Kathy Szeliga and members of the Maryland Freedom Caucus released a statement regarding the planned protests this weekend.
In light of the destructive riots and violence now unfolding in Los Angeles, the Maryland Freedom Caucus today issued a strong condemnation of lawless acts that are putting innocent lives, homes, and businesses at risk.
The Caucus is calling on Maryland state and local leaders to take proactive measures to ensure that planned protests (link) here this weekend do not devolve into the samekind of chaos.“
“What began as protests around ICE actions in Los Angeles has spiraled intoriots, assaults, and destruction,” said Vice Chair Delegate Kathy Szeliga.
“We support the right to protest peacefully, but no Marylander should have to fear for their family’s safety or their livelihood because of mob violence. We call on the Governor, local officials, and law enforcement to act now to ensure order ismaintained and our communities are protected.”
The Maryland Freedom Caucus (MDFC) further reaffirmed its long-standing support for common-sense cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to ensure that violent criminals who are here illegally areremoved from our communities.
Marylanders overwhelmingly support this position across the political spectrum.
A September 2024 Gonzales statewide poll commissioned by the MDFC found that: 84 percent of Maryland voters support requiring local law enforcement to turn over to ICE any illegal immigrant convicted of a violent crime, gang activity, or sexual offense.
This includes strong bipartisan support: 95% of Republicans, 82% of Democrats, and 77% of Independents agree with this policy.
“The public is absolutely clear: violent offenders should be removed from ourcommunities — not protected from enforcement,” the Caucus stated.
“Unfortunately, radical activists in Los Angeles and elsewhere are putting criminal aliens ahead of the safety of American families.”
The Maryland Freedom Caucus calls on all Marylanders planning to participate inprotests to commit to peace and respect for the law and urges law enforcement to act swiftly against any attempt to import the violence seen in Los Angeles to our state.
