Tom Homan, known as a border czar, has confirmed that the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency is actively investigating Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). The inquiry pertains to allegations that she employed an undocumented individual within her congressional staff and provided advice on how to evade ICE operations. Homan revealed these details during a recent engagement with political commentator Benny Johnson.
The focal point of the investigation is Diego de la Vega, who previously served as Ocasio-Cortez’s deputy communications director. De la Vega, an Ecuador-born immigrant, arrived in the U.S. at the age of seven and overstayed his visitor’s visa, which rendered him undocumented. After a long tenure in the U.S., he recently relocated to Colombia. His employment history includes a position as a congressional fellow for former Representative Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), which is indicated on his LinkedIn profile.
Homan, during his discussion with Johnson, stated that while he could not divulge further details, the investigation was being taken seriously. He specifically pointed out the potential legal ramifications of Ocasio-Cortez's actions, suggesting that educating constituents on how to avoid ICE could be tantamount to criminal activity. Homan was unequivocal in his stance that employing an undocumented immigrant within Congress was not permissible.
The controversy gained traction following a "Know Your Rights" webinar hosted by Ocasio-Cortez in February. The event aimed to inform constituents about their rights when interacting with ICE agents. Homan criticized this initiative, and the investigation seems to be, in part, a response to his concerns.
In light of Homan's public statements, Ocasio-Cortez reached out to Attorney General Pam Bondi seeking clarity on the Department of Justice's stance. She inquired about potential political motivations behind the probe and defended her rights to free speech against what she perceived as intimidation tactics.
Despite the investigation, Ocasio-Cortez remains resolute. During a town hall event in Queens, she expressed her readiness to face the federal scrutiny head-on, telling the audience, "Come for me," signaling her determination not to be cowed by the investigation.
The case has attracted significant attention, with discussions on social media platforms and political forums reflecting a wide range of opinions on the matter. As the investigation proceeds, the outcome will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics of the congresswoman. The implications of the investigation are far-reaching, potentially impacting immigration policy discussions, congressional employment practices, and the broader debate over rights education and law enforcement.
