Trump Claims Undocumented Immigrants Who Commit Crimes Have “Bad Genes”

In a recent radio interview on “The Hugh Hewitt Show,” former President Donald Trump suggested that undocumented immigrants who commit murder possess “bad genes.” This statement reflects a pattern of dehumanizing rhetoric aimed at stoking fears about individuals living in the country illegally.

During the interview, Trump criticized Vice President Kamala Harris, falsely alleging that she is “allowing people to come through an open border, 13,000 of which were murderers.” He asserted, “You know, now, a murderer, I believe this – it’s in their genes. And we got bad, a lot of bad genes in our country right now.” This claim perpetuates harmful stereotypes about immigrants and further contributes to the divisive dialogue surrounding immigration.

CNN has reached out to the Trump campaign for comment, but the former president’s remarks are consistent with his broader strategy of using inflammatory language to target undocumented immigrants. Throughout his political career, Trump has made curbing illegal immigration a cornerstone of his message, vowing to implement mass deportations if he is reelected.

This rhetoric is not new for Trump. Last fall, he described undocumented immigrants as “poisoning the blood of our country,” a phrase reminiscent of language used by white supremacist groups. Such comments have drawn sharp criticism from civil rights organizations, which argue that they contribute to a climate of fear and discrimination against immigrants.

Trump has also made misleading claims about specific groups of migrants. For example, he has propagated conspiracy theories suggesting that Haitian migrants were engaging in bizarre acts, including eating pets in Springfield, Ohio. These unfounded assertions have further fueled negative perceptions of immigrant communities.

In addition to his comments on undocumented immigrants, Trump has previously invoked genetics in a more general context during campaign events. In 2020, while speaking to supporters in Minnesota, he remarked, “You have good genes. A lot of it is about the genes, isn’t it, don’t you believe? The racehorse theory. You think we’re so different? You have good genes in Minnesota.” This reference to the “racehorse theory” aligns with ideas from selective breeding in animal husbandry, suggesting that certain traits are inherited and contribute to perceived superiority.

The implications of Trump’s comments are significant. By suggesting that criminal behavior is genetically determined, he not only dehumanizes individuals who commit crimes but also unfairly stereotypes entire groups based on their immigration status. This narrative can have serious consequences, influencing public opinion and policy decisions regarding immigration.

As Trump continues to make immigration a focal point of his 2024 campaign, it is likely that he will rely on similar language and themes to galvanize his base. His approach reflects a broader trend in contemporary politics, where fear-mongering and scapegoating are employed as tactics to rally support.

Critics argue that such rhetoric not only fosters division but also undermines the complexities of immigration and crime. Research has consistently shown that immigrants, regardless of their legal status, are less likely to commit crimes than native-born citizens. These facts stand in stark contrast to Trump’s narrative, which seeks to paint immigrants as threats to public safety.

The use of dehumanizing language can have a profound impact on societal attitudes toward immigrants, leading to increased hostility and discrimination. It is essential to challenge these harmful narratives and promote a more nuanced understanding of immigration, recognizing the contributions that immigrants make to society.

As the debate over immigration continues to evolve, it is crucial for public discourse to move away from fear-based rhetoric and toward policies that reflect compassion and understanding. The portrayal of immigrants should be rooted in facts and humanity rather than stereotypes and inflammatory language.

In summary, Trump’s comments about “bad genes” reflect a troubling trend of dehumanization in discussions about undocumented immigrants. By perpetuating harmful stereotypes, he not only misrepresents the realities of immigration but also fosters a divisive atmosphere that undermines the values of inclusivity and understanding. As the 2024 election approaches, it is vital for voters and leaders alike to recognize and challenge such rhetoric in favor of a more compassionate dialogue.