Nydia Velázquez, a longstanding member of the U.S. Congress representing New York’s 7th district since 1993, has recently shared her perspectives on various pressing issues through social media posts. Her comments cover topics ranging from immigration and international trade to environmental policies.
On May 5, 2025, Velázquez addressed concerns regarding fatalities in ICE custody following former President Trump’s return to office. She stated that “7 people have died in ICE custody since Trump’s return.” The individuals named were Genry Ruiz Guillén, Serawit Dejene, Maksym Chernyak, Juan Tineo-Martinez, Brayan Rayo-Garzón, Nhon Nguyen, and Marie Blaise. Velázquez emphasized that “no one should die in state custody” and called for thorough investigations into each incident.
In another post dated May 7, 2025, Velázquez criticized the current administration’s handling of tariff negotiations. She expressed frustration by stating “What a bunch of bullshit.” She further elaborated that the administration lacked a coherent plan and accused Trump and Bessent of undermining U.S. interests with their “chaotic tariff policy.”
Later on the same day, Velázquez recounted her confrontation with Republican members during the Natural Resources Committee’s reconciliation markup. She accused them of prioritizing tax breaks for Big Oil and billionaires over environmental conservation. In her words: “They’re willing to destroy our lands and quality of life just to hand out tax breaks to Big Oil and billionaires.” She urged action against what she termed as a “budget betrayal.”
Nydia Velázquez was born in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico in 1953 and currently resides in Brooklyn. She holds a BA from the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras.
