On February 14, 2025, the White House posted a Valentine’s Day message on its social media platforms that quickly ignited backlash over its stance on immigration. The post featured a pink Valentine’s card decorated with hearts and the controversial message:
“Roses are red, violets are blue, come here illegally, and we’ll deport you.”
The image included photos of President Donald Trump and Tom Homan, the administration’s immigration enforcement official, widely known for his tough stance on illegal migration.
The post was immediately met with criticism from advocacy groups, politicians, and immigrant communities. Organizations like Voto Latino and the Hispanic Federation condemned the message, calling it insensitive and divisive. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus also spoke out against it, arguing that such rhetoric further dehumanizes immigrant families and fuels fear within communities already facing uncertainty due to the administration’s strict immigration policies.
Critics pointed out that beyond the language used in the post, the policies behind it are having real consequences. The Trump administration has been ramping up deportations, targeting sanctuary cities, and exploring legal changes that could limit birthright citizenship. Supporters of the administration, however, defended the post, saying it reflects a firm commitment to enforcing immigration laws and deterring illegal crossings.
This incident underscores the deep political divide over immigration in the U.S., with the White House using a lighthearted holiday to send a serious and controversial message.
