(José Niño, Headline USA) Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, R-Fla., drew renewed attention after posting, then deleting, a message celebrating support from Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella. A Breitbart report said Salazar removed language pledging to act as a political voice for Colombians in Congress while leaving the president’s endorsement visible.
Salazar wrote, “I receive with immense pride the support of my friend, President Abelardo de la Espriella.” She added, “Representing thousands of Colombians in South Florida has made Colombia a cause I carry with me every day to Congress.” Coverage from The Hill confirmed that the Colombian president described her as Colombia’s “best friend” in the United States Congress.
In the statement reported by Breitbart, Salazar continued, “Abelardo has in me a friend. Colombia, an ally. And Colombians, a steadfast voice in the United States Congress.” The exchange came as Salazar seeks another term in a heavily Hispanic South Florida district.
Colombia vuelve a mirar hacia adelante. 🇨🇴
Y recibo con enorme orgullo el respaldo de mi amigo, el presidente Abelardo de la Espriella.
Sé cuánto ama a Colombia. Conozco sus convicciones y la determinación con la que trabaja para devolverle a su país seguridad, prosperidad y… pic.twitter.com/JMVSj3TmWc
— María Elvira Salazar 🇺🇸 (@MaElviraSalazar) October 12, 2026
The episode has also revived debate about Salazar’s DIGNIDAD Act, her immigration measure introduced as H.R. 4393. The bill would create a renewable seven-year protection from removal for illegal aliens who meet work or education requirements, pay restitution, and satisfy other conditions. It also creates potential paths to lawful permanent residence for qualifying applicants, including some with DACA status.
Salazar has defended the proposal as a border security and immigration reform package. Her office has described it as “the most serious and viable path forward to addressing our immigration crisis,” arguing that it couples enforcement provisions with a permanent framework for long-term illegal aliens.
José Niño is the deputy editor of Headline USA. Follow him at x.com/JoseAlNino
