Aide to AOC Self-Deports to Colombia After Illegal Employment in Congress

Diego de la Vega, a former aide to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has self-deported to Colombia after overstaying a visitor’s visa since childhood. His departure raises questions regarding his employment status in Congress. De la Vega, who expressed satisfaction with his new freedom, is critical of the current immigration strategies and reflects on his past as an undocumented individual.

Diego de la Vega, a former aide to Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has reportedly self-deported to Colombia after spending 23 years in the United States. Born in Ecuador, de la Vega overstayed his visitor’s visa after immigrating at the age of seven. His decision to return raises questions concerning his employment status during his tenure in Congress while being in the country illegally.

In an interview with Migrant Insider, he expressed a mix of emotions about his departure: “It feels like exile. It’s a very permanent move, but my wife and I are confident we made the right decision.” He also praised the “freedom of movement” he now enjoys, adding, “It feels surreal to not be illegalized anymore. I don’t have to live in the shadows or constantly worry about paperwork.”

De la Vega’s political engagement intensified after the Dream Act was rejected in 2010. He initially worked for an immigrant rights organization, later serving as communications director for Robert Rodriguez in the New York State Assembly, and eventually joined Ocasio-Cortez’s re-election campaign as deputy communications director in 2021.

Despite his immigration status, Ocasio-Cortez supported him, stating, “Diego is amazing. We love him.” DACA recipients, however, are prohibited from holding paid positions in congressional offices. On his collaboration with Ocasio-Cortez, de la Vega asserted, “We engaged with [constituents] honestly.”

He expressed frustration with the stagnation of the immigration movement, indicating that strategies have failed to adapt. He noted, “Biden had a trifecta — the House, Senate, and White House, but dropped the ball.” Reflecting on his past, he conveyed a sense of fulfillment regarding his roots but acknowledged a potential long absence from the U.S. before hopefully returning.

Diego de la Vega’s self-deportation to Colombia brings attention to the complexities surrounding undocumented individuals in political roles in the United States. His experience highlights challenges in the immigration movement and the ongoing struggles faced by immigrants. Despite his departure, de la Vega has expressed confidence in his choice, valuing newfound freedom over years of living in fear.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com