Orlando Democratic Congressman Darren Soto says the Hispanic and immigrant community in Central Florida is fearful of new federal immigration policies under President Donald Trump.
"Central Florida has a vibrant and diverse community, and I just think this goes against our values," Soto tells News 96.5 WDBO.
He thinks the new immigration law enforcement guidelines presented by Homeland Security this week will cost the economy and "divide and tear apart" families in the community.
"We care about our immigrant brothers and sisters in general," he says. "And we believe we should really be talking about comprehensive immigration reform."
When asked about the people in Central Florida who believe President Trump should enforce the immigration laws on the books, Soto notes that the President has discretion in which laws become a priority for enforcement. He referenced President Obama's "DACA program" as an example.
"President Trump has decided to use that discretion to the maximum to go after our immigrant community, and I jsut think that's wrong for Central Florida and for our nation," Soto says.
Legal citizens are expressing concerns, according to Soto, that they will be stopped because of how they look.
"They may get mixed up in it, and it may cause them embarassment. It may cause mistrust."
Soto says his office is already taking action. He says they're informing citizens of their rights, and addressing to local law enforcement their discretion in not participating in an expanded role for them in enforcing immigration laws.
Prior to this article, News 96.5 WDBO also reached out to Orlando Republican Congressman Daniel Webster, Orlando Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy, and Orlando Congresswoman Val Demings for their comments. If any of them get back, another article will be posted.