UPDATE: During a pivotal moment on CNN’s Election Night coverage, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) emphasized the urgent need for the Republican Party to reevaluate its immigration policies to better resonate with Latino voters. In a compelling discussion that aired on November 7, 2023, Malliotakis argued that focusing immigration efforts on deporting criminals instead of long-term residents is crucial for improving the party’s appeal.
Malliotakis stated, “I think we need to move a little more in the middle,” highlighting the importance of not targeting individuals who have been productive members of society for years. She warned that the current approach could backfire, saying, “Going after people who have no criminal history, who have been here for decades… I think that’s going to hurt and backfire.”
The urgency of her message comes as Republicans assess their strategies following recent electoral outcomes. Malliotakis, who identifies as half Hispanic and is part of the Republican Hispanic Caucus, noted that the party must focus on the right issues to garner support, particularly from communities that feel alienated by past policies.
During the discussion, host Anderson Cooper pressed Malliotakis on former President Trump’s broad definition of criminals, which includes anyone residing in the country illegally. Malliotakis acknowledged the backlash against such hardline stances, stating, “The pendulum cannot go too far, or else you’re going to lose that Hispanic vote.”
She pointed to a significant decline in crime in New York City, attributing it to Trump’s actions to deport criminals, but cautioned against a one-size-fits-all approach. “We need to focus on the gang members, the drug traffickers, not people who are here contributing,” she insisted.
Malliotakis also called for the Republican Party to better communicate its achievements, such as border security and tax cuts for working families. “People will see that benefit next year when they file their tax return,” she stated, reinforcing the need for a shift in messaging as the party navigates its future.
As the electoral landscape continues to evolve, Malliotakis’s remarks signal a critical moment for the GOP. With Latino voters increasingly pivotal in elections, her call for moderation could reshape party strategies moving forward.
With the stakes high, Republicans are being urged to take immediate action to address these concerns and redefine their approach to immigration if they hope to secure broader support in the upcoming election cycle.
