WASHINGTON D.C. – Representative Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL) sparked a renewed debate on immigration policy on Monday, July 21, 2026, by publicly defending her proposed Dignity Act. Salazar argued that allowing millions of undocumented individuals without criminal records to remain in the United States is essential for the nation’s economic vitality and military strength, drawing both support and criticism.
"Let them stay. Let them continue contributing to the number one economy in the world, so we can continue being the number one military in the world. If we don’t have the economy, we don’t have the guns, and we cannot defend ourselves." — Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL)
Speaking on Capitol Hill, Salazar emphasized the economic contributions of the undocumented population, particularly those from the Hispanic community. "We are talking about millions and millions of undocumented people who belong to my Hispanic community," she stated. "So why don’t we give them dignity and let those who do not have a criminal record stay and continue contributing to the economy?" She further elaborated on the connection between economic strength and national security, asserting, "Let them stay. Let them continue contributing to the number one economy in the world, so we can continue being the number one military in the world. If we don’t have the economy, we don’t have the guns, and we cannot defend ourselves." Her remarks were made during a press conference that included discussion on restoring Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
The Dignity Act, championed by Salazar, seeks to establish a pathway to legal status for millions of long-term undocumented individuals who meet specific eligibility requirements and lack criminal records. The legislation is designed to pair this process with robust additional border security measures, aiming to create a comprehensive approach to immigration reform. Supporters of the bill contend that it could alleviate persistent workforce shortages across various sectors of the American economy.
Salazar has consistently highlighted labor deficits as a key rationale for her proposal. During an April press conference, she specifically cited approximately 150,000 unfilled agricultural jobs and noted that the National Association of Manufacturers had publicly endorsed the Dignity Act. She argued that businesses in critical industries such as agriculture, construction, hospitality, manufacturing, health care, and dairy farming are struggling to fill essential positions, with employers reporting difficulties in staffing these roles. This perspective aligns with those who believe that immigrant workers play a vital role in sustaining these sectors, including Katie Smith Sloan, chief executive of LeadingAge, who has noted the importance of immigrant workers in eldercare facilities.
However, Salazar’s latest comments have reignited scrutiny and opposition, particularly from conservative commentators and officials aligned with President Donald Trump’s administration. Critics argue that expanding legal status for millions of undocumented individuals could potentially depress wages by increasing the supply of low-wage workers. They also question whether large-scale immigration, particularly through such pathways, genuinely strengthens the nation’s long-term economic and national security interests.
President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance have advocated for a different approach to immigration and labor policy. They have consistently argued that reducing the nation's reliance on low-wage migrant labor would empower American workers by strengthening their wages and bargaining power. Vice President Vance recently articulated this stance, stating that corporations should not depend on inexpensive migrant labor to compete against U.S. workers. He added that policies encouraging offshoring and cheap labor have historically weakened domestic industries, suggesting that a more restrictive immigration policy would enhance American workers' leverage in the labor market.
The ongoing debate over Salazar’s Dignity Act reflects a broader ideological divide within Congress regarding immigration. Many Republican leaders, in alignment with President Trump, have prioritized stricter border enforcement, increased deportations, and measures designed to limit incentives for illegal immigration. Conversely, some lawmakers, including Salazar, advocate for pathways to legal status for long-term undocumented immigrants who are not criminals, emphasizing their potential to address labor shortages and contribute to the economy. These competing philosophies continue to shape legislative negotiations concerning immigration reform and border security efforts in Washington.
