Mario Díaz-Balart U.S. House of Representatives from Florida | Official U.S. House Headshot
Mario Díaz-Balart U.S. House of Representatives from Florida | Official U.S. House Headshot
Today, representatives Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Carlos A. Giménez (FL-28), and María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) issued a joint statement concerning Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelan nationals. The statement addresses the ongoing situation in Venezuela under Nicolás Maduro's regime.
"The regime of Nicolás Maduro is one of the world’s most repressive dictatorships, and its mounting failures have led to one of the largest migration crises in history, with millions of Venezuelans being forced to flee the brutal and oppressive regime," they said.
The lawmakers noted that many Venezuelans have integrated into U.S. communities, respecting laws and contributing to prosperity. However, they also highlighted concerns about individuals exploiting this generosity. "Unfortunately, we have seen how some individuals, such as members of the Tren de Aragua, have exploited our generosity and flouted our laws," they added.
On this day, President Trump signed the “Laken Riley Act,” which aims to provide federal authorities with tools to prevent crimes linked to organized groups like Tren de Aragua. The act is named after Laken Riley, who was murdered by a member of this group.
In 2021, President Trump granted Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) to Venezuelan nationals in the United States. This decision aimed at protecting those seeking safety from persecution in their home country.
"President Trump has shown steadfast and unwavering solidarity with the Venezuelan people," the lawmakers continued. They praised his actions supporting democratic opposition in Venezuela and imposing sanctions on Maduro's government.
The representatives emphasized their commitment to working with the administration on policies that protect U.S. national security interests while defending human rights and democracy.
"The Venezuelan people have endured repression, corruption, and human rights abuses for far too long in Venezuela," they concluded. They pledged continued efforts to protect those fleeing persecution and oppression.
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