Florida Democratic Congressman Maxwell Frost recently stirred controversy by advocating for the removal of the Statue of Liberty in a speech addressing illegal immigration and asylum. Frost justified his call to tear down the New York landmark as a symbol of protest against HR 2, a comprehensive border security bill which he considers “bigoted legislation.”

He argued that our nation has marketed itself as a destination for refugees seeking freedom and asylum, and if fellow Republican colleagues were intent on passing discriminatory immigration laws, they should also propose dismantling the Statue of Liberty to better align with their policy goals.

Furthermore, Frost publicly stated that migrants are being encouraged by lawmakers to come to America. He rejected the term “illegal alien,” asserting that migrants are not invaders but rather individuals who become Americans as soon as they set foot in the country. Frost expressed his enthusiasm for citizenship ceremonies, emphasizing that newcomers are already Americans upon arrival.

In response to Frost’s claims, many Republicans, including Representative Aaron Bean, have criticized his statements. Frost concluded his speech by accusing Republicans of dishonesty, urging them to be truthful if they aim to dismantle a system he considers the foundation of the country.