Texas Democrat Maureen Galindo under fire for vowing to jail American Zionists at detention center

A Democratic congressional candidate in Texas is facing intense criticism from members of her own party after publicly stating she would imprison American Zionists at a facility currently used to detain undocumented immigrants. Maureen Galindo, running for the newly redrawn 35th Congressional District, made the controversial remarks in an Instagram post last week. The sex therapist and housing activist wrote she would convert the Karnes ICE Detention Center into a prison for American Zionists and former ICE officers. She also suggested the facility would serve as a processing center for pedophiles, claiming most Zionists would fall into that category.

Galindo is competing against Johnny Garcia in a Democratic primary runoff scheduled for May 26. Garcia, a former hostage negotiator and public information officer for the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, is considered the moderate candidate in the race. The runoff has attracted unusual attention after reports emerged that a mysterious super PAC with alleged Republican ties has spent heavily to boost progressive candidates viewed as easier opponents in the general election.

Mystery super PAC promotes controversial candidate in Democratic primary

According to reports, a group called Lead Left PAC has promoted Galindo through mailers highlighting her support for dismantling ICE and impeaching President Donald Trump. The effort appears designed to help Republicans maintain their narrow House majority by elevating candidates perceived as more vulnerable in a general election. The PAC’s involvement has raised questions about strategic interference in Democratic primaries across multiple districts.

Galindo’s campaign messaging has focused on progressive priorities, including immigration reform and executive accountability. However, her recent social media activity has shifted attention to inflammatory statements about Jewish Americans and accusations of conspiracy. The candidate has used her platforms to make claims about billionaire Zionists controlling trafficking networks in San Antonio and South Texas.

Candidate accuses opponent of targeting Jews and Mexicans

In additional social media posts, Galindo has attacked her opponent Garcia with incendiary language. She accused him of wanting Jews and Mexicans in warehouses, without providing evidence for the claim. The posts have drawn sharp rebukes from political observers and media outlets monitoring the race. The New York Times editorial board specifically urged voters to reject Galindo in the upcoming runoff, citing her antisemitic rhetoric as disqualifying.

• Galindo proposed converting ICE detention facility into prison for American Zionists
• Candidate claimed most Zionists are pedophiles in Instagram post
• Mystery Republican-linked PAC spent heavily promoting her campaign
• New York Times editorial board urged voters to reject her candidacy
• National Democratic leaders face pressure to denounce her statements

Galindo defends remarks while denying antisemitism allegations

During an appearance on Texas Public Radio, Galindo rejected accusations of antisemitism while reaffirming her opposition to what she called Zionist Jews. She attempted to defend her position by referencing a past relationship with a Jewish man. The candidate claimed she distinguishes between Jewish people generally and Zionist Jews specifically, arguing the latter control Hollywood, media, banks and politicians. Her defense echoed classic antisemitic tropes that have been widely condemned by Jewish organizations and civil rights groups.

The candidate’s statements have prompted several prominent Democrats to distance themselves from her campaign. Texas State Representative James Talarico, a high-profile candidate for the United States Senate, told media outlets that antisemitic rhetoric has no place in politics. His campaign confirmed he would not campaign for Galindo if she wins the Democratic nomination. Talarico called for leadership in both parties to stand up against hate.

National Democratic leaders face calls to condemn candidate’s comments

United States Representative Jared Moskowitz of Florida called on national Democratic leaders to denounce Galindo’s comments publicly. He wrote on social media that this represented the first current political candidate suggesting concentration camps for American Jews. Moskowitz argued the story should receive national news coverage. Senator Ruben Gallego of Arizona went further, stating on social media that Galindo should never be allowed to hold public office.

The controversy has placed Democratic Party officials in an uncomfortable position ahead of the May 26 runoff. While the party typically avoids intervening in primaries, Galindo’s statements have created pressure for leadership to take a stand. The candidate’s advancing to the runoff despite her inflammatory rhetoric has raised concerns about vetting processes and the influence of outside money in party primaries. Garcia has not publicly responded to the latest controversy surrounding his opponent.

The 35th Congressional District race has become a test case for how political parties handle candidates who express views widely considered antisemitic. Jewish advocacy groups have closely monitored the situation, with some issuing statements condemning Galindo’s rhetoric. The outcome of the runoff will determine whether Democratic voters in the district prioritize progressive policy positions over concerns about antisemitism and electability in the general election against a Republican opponent.