House Dems rally around Hamas sympathizer facing potential deportation

House Democratic lawmakers are up in arms over the detention of anti-Israel activist and Columbia University graduate Mahmoud Khalil, expressing outrage over the possibility of his deportation. Rep. Deila Ramirez, D-Ill., joined Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., in demanding Khalil’s release at a news conference on Capitol Hill on Tuesday.

Ramirez condemned the government’s targeting of individuals for expressing dissenting views, emphasizing the importance of free speech and the right to protest injustices. She questioned whether it was fair to criminalize individuals for speaking out against government actions they believe to be unjust.

While some lawmakers may not agree with Khalil’s views, they stressed the need for due process and upholding the rule of law. Rep. Ami Bera emphasized the importance of granting legal rights to individuals like Khalil, who are legally residing in the country.

Rep. Lois Frankel, D-Fla., acknowledged her disagreements with Khalil’s views but underscored the fundamental right to freedom of speech enshrined in the Constitution. She emphasized the necessity of full legal rights and due process before anyone is arrested or deported.

Khalil, a green card holder married to a U.S. citizen, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials on March 8. The U.S. government argued that Khalil had fraudulently applied to change his immigration status without fully disclosing his affiliations with certain organizations, which could be grounds for deportation.

Despite the government’s claims, critics have raised concerns about the suppression of free speech and the potential violation of Khalil’s rights. Risa Lieberwitz, a professor of labor and employment law, spoke at an “emergency vigil” outside Columbia University to protest the recent policy changes and express solidarity with Khalil.

President Donald Trump has voiced support for Khalil’s detention, citing his administration’s crackdown on individuals engaged in what he deemed as “pro-terrorist, anti-Semitic, anti-American activity.” Trump thanked ICE for apprehending Khalil and vowed to deport other individuals with similar affiliations.

The Trump White House’s decision to withhold $400 million in federal funding from Columbia University in response to campus protests has further escalated tensions. Other alleged protesters, like Ranjani Srinivasan and Leqaa Kordia, have faced repercussions for their activism, highlighting the broader crackdown on dissent within academic institutions.

In the midst of escalating tensions and legal battles, House Democrats remain steadfast in their defense of free speech and due process rights for individuals like Khalil. As the case unfolds, the debate over immigration policies, national security concerns, and constitutional rights continues to divide lawmakers and activists alike.