A Democratic candidate in Texas has ignited significant outrage by suggesting that a federal immigration detention site near San Antonio be transformed into an internment camp for “American Zionists.” This statement was made by Maureen Galindo in a recent Instagram post.
Galindo, who is competing in the Democratic runoff for the newly configured 35th Congressional District, asserted that she would repurpose the Karnes ICE Detention Center into a facility for former ICE officers and alleged human traffickers. She controversially mentioned it being a “castration processing center for pedophiles,” implying a broad attack on a specific demographic.
The backlash against her comments continues to grow as Election Day approaches for the May 26 Democratic primary runoff. Critics have labeled her rhetoric as antisemitic and detached from reality.
Recently, Galindo has accused her opponent, Johnny Garcia, of conspiracy involvement in human trafficking, tying him to what she referred to as “billionaire zionist Jews.” Furthermore, she has claimed she would put Garcia on trial for treason, intensifying the controversy.
In addition to the attacks on Garcia, Galindo has frequently promoted the belief that a group of Jewish Zionists controls various sectors including Hollywood and politics. This narrative has drawn backlash and highlighted concerns over her candidacy.
While Galindo insists that her criticisms are aimed at “zionists,” not Jewish individuals, her comments continue to be met with condemnation. She argues that such Zionists are putting Jewish people at greater risk.
The San Antonio Jewish Federation responded strongly, stating that Galindo’s language crosses a significant line.
Bill’s picture of Maureen Galindo must have been taken with the help of an enormous number of filters.
This is what Maureen Galindo really looks and acts like. She’s 🦇💩 crazy to say the least. https://t.co/8myTBnwkCe pic.twitter.com/Mccn8Y9Zpr
— Kim “Katie” USA (@KimKatieUSA) May 19, 2026
The Federation condemned the spread of antisemitic tropes, asserting that divisive rhetoric against the Jewish community has no place in public discourse.
Her remarks have also begun to alienate her within the Democratic Party as leaders seek to distance themselves from such controversies. Endorsements are being retracted, indicating a lack of support for her candidacy amid escalating tensions.
State Representative James Talarico, the Democratic nominee for the competitive U.S. Senate race, emphasized the need for strong leadership in both parties to denounce hate and divisive rhetoric.
The runoff election will be pivotal, occurring in a district shaped by recent redistricting efforts. Galindo has garnered attention through her far-left positions, while her opponents accuse her of embracing dangerous rhetoric.
Early voting for the Democratic primary runoff concludes on May 22, with polling reopening on May 26. For more information, you can check the Bexar County Elections Department’s website for polling locations and hours.
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