Rep. Ritchie Torres, a progressive Democrat from the Bronx, has recently distanced himself from his earlier left-wing positions on immigration as he considers a bid for New York governor in 2026. Torres, known for his vocal support of immigrants and his past advocacy for measures like mass amnesty for illegal immigrants, now describes himself as “pro-immigration and pro-border security.”
Torres’ shift comes in the wake of the escalating border crisis, which he says has forced him to reconsider his views on immigration policy. In a recent interview with The Post, Torres explained that while he supports immigration reform, he believes there must be a balance between immigration policies and ensuring national security. He specifically pointed out that states should cooperate with federal authorities in deporting violent criminals who are in the country illegally.
“I believe in a compassionate immigration system, but we must also ensure our borders are secure,” Torres stated. “If the federal government is looking to remove violent criminals, the state should cooperate.”
In the past, Torres had supported more lenient immigration policies. In a 2022 questionnaire from the Jim Owles Liberal LGBT Democratic Club, Torres expressed his backing for mass amnesty for undocumented immigrants. He also opposed programs that facilitated collaboration between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, arguing that such programs undermined trust in police within immigrant communities.
However, Torres now claims his previous positions were mischaracterized and that they no longer align with his current views. He explained that a campaign staffer, not he, had filled out the questionnaire, but he took full responsibility for the answers.
Torres also disputed another answer from the questionnaire in which he said he would refuse donations from police unions. The congressman, who has previously criticized the “defund the police” movement, made it clear that he welcomes support from law enforcement groups.
“I have always supported law enforcement,” Torres said. “The defund the police movement is dead, and good riddance.”
While his evolving stance on immigration is drawing significant attention, Torres’ critics argue that his shift is politically motivated. A spokesperson for Governor Kathy Hochul, who could face Torres in a Democratic primary for governor, accused him of being a “hypocrite” who is “out of touch with New Yorkers on critical issues like immigration and public safety.” The spokesperson further claimed that Torres’ newfound positions are nothing more than “grandstanding.”
Torres’ critics also pointed to his previous opposition to programs like the 287(g) program, which allowed local police to collaborate with federal immigration authorities to identify and deport undocumented immigrants. In a 2021 statement, Torres had called for defunding the program, claiming it caused mistrust within immigrant communities.
The controversy surrounding Torres’ shifting stance has fueled speculation about his political future. As he eyes a run for governor in 2026, some observers wonder if his more moderate positions will resonate with voters. Torres, who has consistently criticized Hochul’s leadership, particularly on issues like crime and public safety, may be positioning himself as a viable alternative to the incumbent governor.
However, Torres’ critics within the progressive community argue that his move to the center on immigration could alienate the very voters who have supported him in the past. Allen Roskoff, president of the Jim Owles club, which originally distributed the questionnaire, expressed disappointment with Torres’ change in views. “We send candidates the questionnaire, and it is returned. We post it on our website. End of story,” Roskoff said.
Despite the backlash, Torres remains confident in his political trajectory. He continues to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform while acknowledging the need for stronger border security. He also emphasized the importance of providing medical care to undocumented migrants, particularly through New York City’s Health + Hospitals program, which offers care to those without insurance, regardless of their immigration status.
Torres’ evolving stance on immigration has sparked a broader conversation about the future of immigration policy in New York and across the country. As the 2026 gubernatorial race approaches, it remains to be seen how Torres’ positions on immigration will shape his campaign and whether his shift will be embraced or criticized by New Yorkers.
Rep. Ritchie Torres’ shift on immigration marks a significant moment in his political career. While his new positions on border security and cooperation with federal authorities may signal a move toward the political center, they are also raising questions about his consistency and his ability to unite voters across the ideological spectrum. With the 2026 race on the horizon, Torres will need to balance his evolving views with the concerns of both his progressive base and moderate voters.
