Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-FL) drew ridicule on social media after he suggested that Republicans should back a bill to remove the iconic Statue of Liberty along with their “bigoted” immigration laws. The controversial statement was made during a hearing of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee on immigration where the GOP’s Secure the Border Act, also known as H.R.2, was being discussed. This comprehensive border security and immigration bill, passed in May 2021, aims to curb the asylum process for those crossing the border and supports the resumption of the construction of the border wall.
At the hearing, Frost joined other Democratic representatives in admonishing the bill, but his suggestion to remove the Statue of Liberty from public view was perceived by many as an unnecessary and provocative gesture. His mock bill sought to highlight his disagreement with the Republicans’ legislation, which he believes is an assault on America’s heritage as a welcoming and inclusive nation that embraces diversity.
While the bill passed by the House Republicans aims to tighten border security and curb illegal immigration, it has been criticized by human rights groups and Democratic lawmakers who argue that it promotes xenophobia and racial discrimination. Frost’s suggestion, however, has been regarded as an ill-conceived and extreme measure that fails to address the underlying issues of the immigration crisis.
“My colleagues from the other side of the aisle, let’s be honest with immigrants who deserve better than what you’re offering them. Don’t welcome immigrants if you plan to reject them. If you keep pushing your bigoted H.R. 2 bill, then also pass this bill. I’ve taken the liberty of drafting it for you,” Frost said, holding up the draft. “It removes the Statue of Liberty, our largest symbol that tells people to come here.”
“This is who you are, removing the fabric of America. So, I want to know which Republican, who supports and voted for H.R.2, will introduce this bill,” he continued. “If you’re gonna support H.R.2 and these bigoted measures, the least you can do is not be a d–n liar.”
