A Democratic House candidate in Texas is facing growing criticism after making controversial remarks about imprisoning what she described as “billionaire American Zionists.”
Maureen Galindo, a South Texas congressional candidate and sex therapist, came under fire after social media posts surfaced in which she discussed repurposing a federal detention facility for people she accused of supporting “genocidal prison systems.” Her comments quickly drew backlash from members of both parties, including several Democrats.
In a video posted to social media, Galindo denied that she had called for an “internment camp,” saying her remarks had been mischaracterized by journalists and political opponents.
“I never said I wanted to use an internment camp,” Galindo said. She claimed she wanted to close detention centers and instead imprison “billionaire American Zionists” whom she accused of funding abusive prison systems.
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Galindo also said she had received threats and hate messages following the controversy. She blamed the media and elements of her own party for fueling the backlash, while accusing the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee of supporting her runoff opponent, Johnny Garcia.
Garcia, who works with the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, rejected Galindo’s remarks in a video response, saying the comments have “no place” in the Democratic Party or in public service.
Galindo’s campaign later released a statement saying she did not support putting anyone in internment camps. However, the statement said she still supported converting the Karnes ICE facility for “billionaire Zionists,” while arguing that people would be judged by their actions rather than religion.
The controversy has also drawn condemnation from prominent Democrats. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene blamed Republicans for elevating Galindo’s comments, while also describing her remarks as antisemitic.
Jewish Democratic lawmakers, including Reps. Jared Moskowitz and Josh Gottheimer, also criticized Galindo. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, one of the most prominent progressive Democrats in Congress, also condemned the comments.
The backlash comes as Democrats continue to navigate internal divisions over Israel, antisemitism, immigration enforcement and the direction of the party ahead of competitive House races.
DEMOCRATS THREATEN EXPULSION OVER TEXAS CANDIDATE COMMENTS
2 House Democrats say they would push repeated expulsion votes if Maureen Galindo wins a Texas congressional seat.
Her campaign drew backlash over posts about “American Zionists” and proposals involving an ICE detention… pic.twitter.com/NcqVGuHqtc
— NewsForce (@Newsforce) May 22, 2026
