Maureen Galindo is facing intense backlash after proposing that an ICE detention facility in Texas be converted into a prison for “American Zionists,” comments critics across the political spectrum condemned as antisemitic.
Galindo’s campaign posted on Instagram that she would seek to transform the Karnes County Immigration Processing Center into “a prison for American Zionists and former ICE officers,” while also referencing a “castration processing center.”
Galindo, a sex therapist and affordable housing advocate, is seeking election in the newly redrawn 35th Congressional District, where she is competing against Johnny Garcia in a primary runoff.
Fox News reported additional details surrounding the controversy and its political fallout:
Galindo’s runoff campaign has also drawn attention amid reports that a mystery super PAC with ties to Republicans has spent heavily in Democratic primaries to boost progressive candidates viewed as easier general election opponents. According to The New York Times, the group — Lead Left PAC — promoted Galindo in mailers highlighting her support for dismantling ICE and impeaching President Donald Trump as Republicans look to hold their narrow House majority.
Her remarks, which have been called antisemitic by critics, have drawn rebuke from fellow Democrats and The New York Times, which urged voters not to allow her to win the May 26 runoff against Garcia, who is considered a moderate.
In other social media posts, Galindo has accused Garcia—a former hostage negotiator and public information officer for the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office—of wanting “Jews and Mexicans in warehouses.” She also accused “billionaire Zionists” of controlling San Antonio and South Texas trafficking networks.
During an appearance on Texas Public Radio last week, Galindo refuted accusations of antisemitism while reaffirming her opposition to “Zionist Jews.”
The comments triggered immediate condemnation from both Republicans and Democrats. Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) described the remarks as “the first current political candidate suggests concentration camps for American Jews,” while Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) said Galindo should never hold public office.
Galindo has argued her criticism targets Zionism rather than Jewish people broadly. However, prominent Texas Democrat James Talarico announced he would refuse to campaign alongside her if she wins the Democratic runoff, saying “this antisemitic rhetoric has no place in our politics.”
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