The prominent Christian leader and President of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), Rev. Samuel Rodríguez, recently issued a strong statement following the remarks made by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, who made an offensive joke referring to Puerto Rico as “garbage” at a Donald Trump campaign event in New York.

Before a mixed audience, Hinchcliffe remarked, “A lot is happening right now. I don’t know if you knew this, but there is literally a floating island of garbage in the middle of the ocean. I think it’s called Puerto Rico.” Audience reactions varied, and the Trump campaign quickly distanced itself from the inappropriate joke, stating that it “does not reflect the opinions of President Trump or the campaign.”

Rev. Rodríguez, who is of Puerto Rican descent, firmly responded to the joke, declaring, “Puerto Rico is the Island of the Lamb. As a Boricua, I take great pride in my people, and this joke was, in itself, pure garbage. I applaud the Trump campaign for disassociating from Hinchcliffe’s inappropriate message and humor.” Rodríguez added that while he condemns the comment, his focus during this election season remains steadfast on issues he considers fundamental to the well-being of the nation.

The day after the rally, Rev. Rodríguez stated that he shared the stage with President Trump at an event in Georgia, where critical issues were addressed—issues that should be the true focus of national discussion. Rodríguez pointed out, “What is garbage is allowing the border to be completely open, permitting millions of people to enter and harm our communities, bringing in drugs, trafficking children, and violating men and women at the border.” He also denounced that “it is garbage to allow Marxist and socialist ideology to infiltrate and jeopardize our children’s future, as well as to permit doctors to prescribe medication to children who are confused about their sexuality.”

As a steadfast defender of faith and Christian values, Rev. Rodríguez reiterated that although he firmly condemns the joke about Puerto Rico, the nation’s true focus should be on addressing deeper issues that impact its moral and social well-being. “I am neither a Republican nor a Democrat. I am committed to advancing the Lamb’s Agenda,” emphasized the pastor, highlighting his dedication to promoting values and policies that reflect Christian principles and contribute to the well-being of the Hispanic community and the nation as a whole.