Democratic Rep. Shri Thanedar, D-Mich., faced criticism for his refusal to stand during President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress when honoring families of children raped and murdered by illegal immigrants. In a tense exchange with Fox News’ Sean Hannity, Thanedar expressed his disapproval of the administration’s immigration enforcement efforts.
“I did not stand because I was just sick of the president,” Thanedar explained on “Hannity.” Hannity countered, accusing Thanedar of playing politics and not showing respect for families who lost children to heinous crimes committed by illegal immigrants.
“I would not stand for this president,” Thanedar reiterated, claiming that Trump was dishonest and exploiting tragedies for political gain.
During Trump’s speech, he honored several young women allegedly murdered by illegal immigrants, including Jocelyn Nungaray. Despite the emotional moment, many Democrats chose to remain seated, prompting criticism from Jocelyn’s mother, Alexis Nungaray, who labeled their actions as “shameful.”
In a subsequent segment on “Hannity,” Thanedar was pressed by Hannity about his interactions with families affected by illegal immigrant crimes. Thanedar defended his stance, stating he regularly communicates with constituents who feel threatened by ICE’s actions.
Moreover, Thanedar introduced legislation to abolish ICE entirely, citing the agency as irredeemable. His proposed “Abolish ICE Act” aims to create a more compassionate approach to immigration policy, amidst growing scrutiny of ICE’s practices following the tragic death of Renee Nicole Good during an encounter with immigration agents.
