California Democrat Dave Min is attempting to funnel $1.6 million in taxpayer funds to a group that teaches illegal immigrants how to evade federal immigration authorities.
Key Takeaways
- Rep. Dave Min (D-CA) is seeking $1.6 million in federal funding for AJSOCAL, a group that provides guidance to illegal immigrants on evading ICE officers.
- AJSOCAL explicitly advises immigrants against revealing their birthplace, explaining how they entered the U.S., and recommends not carrying foreign identification documents.
- The Biden administration previously awarded AJSOCAL $2.2 million for an eviction prevention program, showing a pattern of federal support.
- Republicans have strongly criticized Min for prioritizing illegal immigrants over the needs of California citizens and legal residents.
- This funding request comes as Min faces a vulnerable reelection campaign, potentially making immigration a central issue in his race.
Taxpayer Dollars for ICE Evasion Training
Freshman Democratic Representative Dave Min of California has sparked outrage by requesting $1.6 million in taxpayer funding for Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL), an organization known for teaching illegal immigrants how to avoid detection and apprehension by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This controversial funding request appears in Min’s list of “legislative funding priorities” and has drawn sharp criticism from Republican opponents who view it as a direct affront to law enforcement and legal immigration processes.
AJSOCAL’s guidance to illegal immigrants includes specific advice on avoiding questions “related to where you were born or how you entered the U.S.,” according to materials reviewed by the Washington Free Beacon. The organization explicitly instructs immigrants to “Get valid ID but DO NOT carry a foreign passport,” clearly demonstrating their intent to help individuals evade proper identification by federal authorities.
Pattern of Supporting Anti-ICE Activities
Min’s funding request doesn’t exist in isolation but appears to be part of a broader Democrat-led effort to undermine immigration enforcement. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has similarly sought funding for the Chinese-American Planning Council, another progressive organization currently under investigation. The Biden administration has already demonstrated its support for AJSOCAL by previously awarding the group $2.2 million for an eviction prevention program, suggesting a pattern of federal backing for organizations that work against immigration enforcement.
“Get a valid ID but DO NOT carry a foreign passport,” stated AJSOCAL.
AJSOCAL’s activities have raised concerns that they may soon attract congressional investigations into taxpayer-funded groups advising on ICE evasion. The organization’s materials are explicit in coaching illegal immigrants on strategies to avoid deportation, effectively encouraging them to circumvent federal law. Despite the controversial nature of these activities, Min’s office has declined to comment on the funding request, leaving voters to question his priorities.
Political Fallout and Republican Response
Min, who is considered vulnerable in his upcoming reelection bid, has drawn fierce criticism from Republicans who see this funding request as evidence that he prioritizes illegal immigrants over the needs of his constituents. NRCC Spokesman Christian Martinez did not mince words, stating that Min has “betrayed his oath” and is failing to protect California families or enforce immigration laws. The National Republican Congressional Committee has made it clear that unseating Min will be a priority in the next election cycle.
“related to where you were born or how you entered the U.S.,” said AJSOCAL
As immigration continues to be a contentious issue across the nation, Min’s funding request for AJSOCAL highlights the stark divide between Democrats who support policies that aid undocumented immigrants and Republicans who advocate for stricter enforcement of immigration laws. With California already struggling with budget deficits and citizens facing high taxes and cost of living, the allocation of $1.6 million to help illegal immigrants evade federal authorities strikes many voters as a misplacement of priorities that puts Americans last.
