Hispanics Decry Tennessee Lawmaker’s ‘Rats’ Comment
Early this week, Todd, a Republican who represents District 95, was discussing prenatal healthcare with state officials during a fiscal review committee hearing with other state representatives.
An official had responded to his question about citizenship checks for pregnant immigrants, “Under the guidance that was provided to states, under the previous administration, there is a technical guidance letter that states that for covering the unborn child, we are not permitted to determine citizenship, because the child, once born, is a U.S. citizen.”
Todd replied, “Well, they can go out there like rats and multiply, then, I guess.”
The comment drew fire from advocacy groups. “Such remarks are deeply troubling and offensive coming from an elected official in a public hearing. Rep. Todd’s words dehumanize immigrant children born in this country and send a message of intolerance and bigotry,” said the Tennessee Equality Project.