Staff Reports
Former Democratic senator Curtis Hertel Jr. has ignited controversy with his stance on local government reporting of illegal immigration, particularly in light of his bid for Michigan's 7th Congressional District seat. Hertel's past comments, dating back to 2017, resurfaced, drawing scrutiny and criticism from various quarters.
During an interview, Hertel expressed opposition to local officials reporting illegal immigrants to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during routine traffic stops, criticizing the term "illegal" and sympathizing with immigrants who did not choose to come to the U.S. He emphasized the contributions of long-standing immigrants to the American experience and advocated for a more welcoming environment in Lansing, even commending its brief stint as a "sanctuary city."
Michigan Democrat angling for Slotkin seat opposes local governments reporting illegal immigrants to ICE #MI07 https://t.co/3qE2xPH1I8
— Courtney Parella (@CourtneyParella) March 11, 2024
However, Hertel clarified that his support for sanctuary city policies did not extend to illegal immigrants who had committed crimes, suggesting that they should be reported to federal immigration authorities. Despite this qualification, his overall stance on immigration enforcement raised concerns, especially given the prevalent national discourse on border security and immigration reform.
Critics, particularly from conservative circles, found Hertel's position alarming, viewing it as contrary to principles of law and order and raising questions about his commitment to safeguarding American citizens' safety and security. With his GOP rival Tom Barrett already having been defeated in 2022, the race for the House seat has become a focal point for Democrats, making Hertel's views on immigration a subject of intense scrutiny.
Hertel's reluctance to address concerns about his 2017 interview and his critical stance on his opponent's border policies, as reported by Fox News, have further fueled doubts about his suitability for the congressional role. This hesitancy to engage in meaningful dialogue on immigration issues could hinder his ability to effectively represent constituents and collaborate on bipartisan solutions in Congress.
Given the heightened attention on immigration policy and voters' demand for comprehensive solutions, Hertel's perceived evasion and lack of transparency may have significant implications for his candidacy. The refusal to engage with media outlets seeking clarification adds to concerns about his accountability and transparency as a potential congressional representative.
