L.A. Councilmember Brags About Having the ‘Largest Undocumented Population’: ‘They Make Our Economy Run’

BERMAN: “So, Donald Trump did win this election, the Electoral College and the popular vote. What message do you think that victory sent? And are you, do you think, out of step with that message?”
SOTO-MARTINEZ: “You know, I think, you know, as many people have made comments on his — when you speak to the issues of working people, when you address their suffering, the increase of cost of living, you know, people will follow. And I’m very proud that here in Los Angeles, we’re leading on raising the minimum wage for tourism workers. We’re fighting to build affordable housing. We’re giving folks options to get around the city, whether that’s through bus or bike. And so we’re really trying to speak to the issues that the people have. And so — and I think that’s why here in Los Angeles, our message is resonating. And the messages that you described earlier from the Republican Party is not.”
BERMAN: “But again, is this move by you out of step with what voters decided? Donald Trump ran on mass deportations. Is what you’re doing, again, opposed to that?”
SOTO-MARTINEZ: “Look, I think that when we have a president that’s trying to rip families apart and has just nominated a border czar that put kids in cages, I think most people would agree that going against those kinds of policies are the correct ones. And especially here in the City of Angels, where we have some of the largest — we are a city of immigrants. We have the largest undocumented population. They make our economy run. And so I think here in Los Angeles, I think our message is — is — is just fine.”