The Los Angeles riots and the broader national unrest surrounding immigration have sparked conversations about how to address these issues in a way that is both just and compassionate. In response to these important developments, Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, Pastor of New Season and President of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, issues the following statement:
“I want to thank President Donald J. Trump for making crystal clear the focus of enforcement must be on real dangers—‘criminals’, not on the quiet, hard‑working people who have built their lives here.
As he said:
‘We must protect our Farmers, but get the CRIMINALS OUT OF THE USA. Changes are coming!’
He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of long-term workers:
‘They’ve worked for them for 20 years; they’re not citizens, but they’ve turned out to be … great, and we’re going to have to do something about that.’
This emphasis echoes what many of us have been saying for over 20 years: secure the border, halt illegal immigration, and deport only those involved in nefarious activities—not God‑fearing, family‑oriented individuals who have lived here for 15, 20, 25, even 30 years, raised children here, and committed no crimes other than overstaying a visa or entering without documentation.
I wholeheartedly agree with Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar, who recently announced on her X account that she and Representative Veronica Escobar will introduce a bipartisan, ‘revolutionary’ proposal this month to bring order to immigration chaos and protect long‑time workers in key industries like construction, hotels, and farms. The nation is watching, and now is the perfect time to pursue a lasting solution—one we’ve prayed for and desired for nearly a quarter‑century.
This isn’t about amnesty—it’s about justice, compassion, and common sense. We must secure our borders, uphold the rule of law, and offer a permanent, humane solution for those who have made America their home in everything but paperwork.
In Jesus’ name, let us seize this moment, unite across party lines, and finally deliver the justice and unity our nation deserves.”
Reverend Sam Rodriguez: Rev. Samuel Rodriguez is the author of Fresh Oil, Holy Fire, New Wine, lead pastor of New Season, one of America’s most influential megachurches, and president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), which represents millions of Christians worldwide.
Rodriguez has advised three U.S. Presidents and is the first Latino to participate in multiple presidential inauguration ceremonies. He is also a best-selling author of 12 books and serves as producer of 7 faith-based films including Breakthrough, Flamin Hot, and Dream King.
Rev. Rodriguez has been recognized by CNN, Fox News, The New York Times, Time Magazine, Univision, Telemundo, and NBC as America’s most influential Hispanic Christian leader. In 2024 NBC described him as “one of the most influential figures in American politics today.” Above all, he is dedicated to magnifying the name of Jesus through every aspect of his ministry and life, giving God all the glory for his influence and impact.
Website | pastorsam.com Twitter | @nhclc Instagram | @pastorsamuelrodriguez. Facebook | /pastorsamuelrodriguezjr