Vermont Congresswoman’s Controversial Immigration Remarks Spark Backlash
Vermont’s lone U.S. House representative, Becca Balint, faced significant criticism this week after a video surfaced in which she made a crude remark about immigration during a speech in Newport. Balint stated that if federal authorities do not increase immigration, "we’re not going to have anyone around to wipe our a–es." The comment quickly drew ire from several political figures, including Vermont Republican Party Chairman Paul Dame, who condemned Balint’s language as "coarse and vulgar" and suggested she apologize for her "disturbing sentiment" regarding immigrant labor.
Dame argued that Balint’s comments reflect a deep disrespect for immigrants striving for a better life in the U.S. He noted that Vermont has successfully integrated foreign workers in various roles, including in local microchip factories and hospitals.
Republican Mark Coester, who is challenging Balint in the 2026 elections, criticized her statement while referencing recent ICE arrests of construction workers in the same area. He and others labeled her comments as elitist and dismissive of skilled trades.
In her defense, Balint emphasized the importance of a structured immigration system to fill labor shortages in Vermont, acknowledging the state’s dependence on immigrant workers for agriculture and other sectors. She described her comments as "crude" but necessary, arguing that current political climates have led to a "lawlessness" that targets immigrants.
In a follow-up with Fox News Digital, Balint reiterated her commitment to standing up for the rights of immigrants, contrasting her stance with the previous administration’s policies, which she termed cruel and inhumane. Balint expressed pride in Vermont’s welcoming reputation for refugees and immigrants, advocating for fair wages and worker rights across industries.
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