LAS VEGAS — Minutes after making pointed remarks about drug dealers and illegal border crossings during a recent campaign stop, Donald Trump received unexpected support from a former undocumented immigrant who now plans to vote for him.
Elias Trujillo shared his personal immigration story at a Latino roundtable in Las Vegas designed to highlight Trump’s economic vision. After addressing a small audience, Trump listened as Trujillo recounted his family’s journey from northern Mexico to the U.S. in 1995 to reunite with their father, who worked in construction.
“We came here legally, but we overstayed our visas and managed to build a life here in the United States,” Trujillo explained, referencing their initial legal entry into the country.
Trujillo’s candid remarks drew laughter and applause from the audience, prompting him to acknowledge the humor of the situation while Trump smiled approvingly.
This moment underscored the complexities surrounding immigration issues within Trump’s campaign. While he actively seeks the support of Latino voters, he often portrays immigration in a negative light, touting a tough stance on the issue.
Trump has made controversial statements, claiming that migrants are “poisoning the blood” of America and referred to the surge in immigration as an “invasion,” promising mass deportations if re-elected.
Just prior to the roundtable in Las Vegas, Trump had visited Aurora, Colorado, where he expressed concerns about the influence of a Venezuelan gang in the city, which he claims is suffering due to an influx of migrants. Local leaders have criticized Trump for exaggerating these issues.
During the Las Vegas event, Trump transitioned from his usual critiques of border policies to expressing admiration for the Latino community, highlighting their entrepreneurial spirit and energy.
“Hispanic people are incredibly ambitious and have a great deal of energy — they are natural entrepreneurs,” Trump stated.
Historically, Trump has tried to reconcile his tough talk on immigration with courting Latino voters, many of whom have legal roots in the U.S. and oppose illegal immigration. Trujillo shared that despite being cautious about Trump initially, he now supports him.
Trujillo also spoke about the obstacles he faced as an undocumented immigrant, describing how it constrained his opportunities, yet he persevered through high school, marriage, and parenthood.
Despite challenges in his restaurant business due to rising costs, Trujillo remains hopeful that Trump’s leadership could bring about improved economic conditions.
“I’m excited about Trump’s potential to run again and restore America’s greatness,” Trujillo remarked.
Following the event, Trujillo explained that while his family initially overstayed their visas, they ultimately achieved legal status, and he has been a U.S. citizen since 2011.
Trujillo expressed understanding of Trump’s strict immigration stance, citing concerns over drug trafficking and crime but advocated for a path to legal status for those already working and abiding by the law.
“There should be a pathway, perhaps not easy, but for those who have built a life here,” he asserted.
This concept of a pathway to citizenship has been debated in U.S. immigration policies for decades, often met with resistance from hardliners who label it as “amnesty.” This harsh opposition ultimately contributed to Trump’s initial rise in politics.
