Yikes—Democrat Rep. Wilson urges supporters to spam call and “threaten” Republicans, calling for an “uprising” over the deportation of criminal aliens
In a controversial and widely criticized statement, Democratic Representative Frederica Wilson has sparked outrage after urging her supporters to flood Republican lawmakers with calls—and even threats—over recent deportations of criminal aliens. The remarks, which were made during a virtual town hall and quickly circulated online, included calls for what she described as a grassroots “uprising” against GOP members who support what she called “cruel and unjust immigration policies.”
Rep. Wilson, known for her outspoken advocacy on immigration and social justice issues, accused Republicans of targeting immigrant communities in what she claimed was a politically motivated campaign to scapegoat vulnerable populations. “These Republicans think they can just round people up like cattle and throw them out without consequences,” Wilson said. “We need to make them feel the heat. Call them. Blow up their phones. Threaten their jobs. Let them know this isn’t going to fly.”
The remarks have drawn sharp condemnation from Republican lawmakers, free speech advocates, and even some moderate Democrats, who argue that the congresswoman’s rhetoric is reckless and potentially dangerous. GOP leaders have characterized her comments as incitement, accusing her of encouraging harassment and intimidation of elected officials for carrying out lawful immigration enforcement.
“This is beyond unacceptable,” said House Minority Leader Mike Johnson. “Encouraging people to threaten members of Congress over immigration enforcement decisions crosses a red line. We expect better from someone in her position.”
Several Republicans who were named in social media posts following the event have reported a surge in threatening calls and messages to their offices. One staffer, who spoke under condition of anonymity, described the situation as “hostile and scary,” saying that some voicemails included violent language and threats to lawmakers’ families.
Wilson’s office has not walked back the comments but instead doubled down, releasing a statement defending her remarks as “passionate advocacy” in response to what she characterized as “state-sanctioned cruelty.” The statement said, “Representative Wilson believes it is the duty of every American to stand up against injustice. When elected officials enable the inhumane treatment of immigrants, they must be held accountable—vocally and persistently.”
Legal analysts say the language used by Wilson walks a fine line and could become the subject of further investigation if any direct threats or acts of violence are tied back to her call to action. The FBI has not issued a formal statement but is reportedly monitoring the situation given the sensitive nature of political threats in the current climate.
The controversy comes amid growing tensions around immigration policy, particularly the deportation of non-citizens with criminal records. While Republicans argue that deporting convicted criminals is essential for national security and public safety, Democrats are increasingly split on how to address the issue, with progressives like Wilson pushing for broader protections and more leniency.
Whether or not Wilson’s comments will result in disciplinary action or formal censure remains unclear. But one thing is certain: the backlash has intensified an already volatile debate, and the line between passionate protest and dangerous provocation continues to blur in America’s increasingly polarized political landscape.
