Rep. Rashida Tlaib drew sharp criticism after denouncing lengthy prison sentences imposed on members of a group convicted in a violent attack on a Texas immigration detention facility.
Eight defendants received sentences ranging from 30 to 100 years following their July 4, 2025 convictions related to the attack. Benjamin Song, a former Marine Corps reservist, received a 100-year sentence after a jury found him guilty of attempted murder for shooting a police lieutenant who survived the gunfire.
Tlaib’s Response
The Michigan Democrat posted on social media that the sentences were “a travesty and totally unjustified,” adding that the outcome reflected the Trump administration’s use of force to maintain power. “NSPM-7 is a grave threat to all of us and more bulls- ‘terrorism’ charges like these are coming,” Tlaib wrote, referencing the National Security Presidential Memorandum that designated antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.
Swift Condemnation
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller responded by stating, “Defending antifa terrorists who tried to massacre state and federal law enforcement is unacceptable from a member of Congress.” Conservative commentators and Trump administration officials quickly amplified criticism of the congresswoman’s remarks.
Journalist Andy Ngo noted that five cell members testified during trial, detailing how the group planned violence under antifa ideology. “They were proven at court to be part of a terrorist antifa cell that trained for and planned violence using firearms,” Ngo wrote.
Details of the Attack
Federal prosecutors described an organized operation in which the group arrived at the detention center wearing dark clothing and masks while carrying firearms, explosives, and military-grade medical equipment. According to the prosecution, Song shouted “Get to the rifles!” before opening fire when police responded to a 911 call.
U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman rejected a self-defense argument presented by Song’s attorneys, who characterized the gunfire as “suppressive fire.” The sentencing followed what prosecutors called a carefully planned attack targeting law enforcement officers.
Historical Significance
U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould stated after sentencing that the case represented “a far cry from a peaceful protest or First Amendment expression.” The conviction marked the first successful federal terrorism prosecution involving alleged antifa members since the Trump administration issued the designation in 2025.
Tlaib’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the backlash.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Digital Team contributed to this report.
