Pro-illegal immigration protesters in Albertville have garnered a lot of attention this week, just not the kind they were likely hoping for.
On Friday, Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth posted a video statement on X condemning the protesters for their behavior Wednesday night and for flouting state and federal laws.
"I was angry when I saw photos and videos of what took place this week in Marshall County, where I was raised and my family and I continue to live today," Ainsworth said. "Hundreds of illegal immigrants and liberal extremists in Albertville were waving Mexican flags, blocking our streets, driving recklessly, cursing President Trump and staging a protest that was anti-ICE, anti-law and order, and, quite frankly, anti-American. Illegal immigrants commit a crime the moment they jump our border and set foot on U.S. soil. So the majority of protestors were breaking our laws by simply being here."
The protest was organized on Facebook, resulting in a large crowd of protesters shouting and waving flags and posters downtown while several vehicles did burnouts on Main Street. The Facebook instructions told demonstrators to be peaceful, bring identification and for "undocumented" people to stay away.
Ainsworth said state law enforcement has formed a task force with federal agencies to enforce Trump's fight against illegal immigration and pinpoint "problem areas" in Alabama.
"The flood of illegal immigrants into Alabama ran freely under Joe Biden, but with President Trump, we finally have an ally in the White House who can help us dam the flood and turn the tide," he said. "As lieutenant governor, I pledge my full, 100% support to President Trump and field agencies like ICE, the DEA, Homeland Security and others that are enforcing his executive orders, arresting the lawbreakers and marching them onto cargo planes headed back to where they came from."
He concluded, "I've consulted with Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Director Hal Taylor, and a state task force is now working hand-in-glove with federal agencies to carry out President Trump's round-up. Since 1923, Alabama's state motto has been "We dare defend our rights." But it's time now for illegal immigrants who reside here to quickly learn that Alabamians also dare defend our borders, as well."
U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) also responded to the protests, denouncing the anti-ICE sentiment as "deeply concerning."
To connect with the story's author or comment, email daniel.taylor@1819news.com or find him on X and Facebook.
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