The sister of the young Michigan woman whose tragic killing has become a political talking point for Republicans on illegal immigration is speaking out against former President Donald J. Trump, accusing him of exploiting her family’s tragedy for his own gain.
Ruby Garcia, 25, was found dead on the side of a Grand Rapids highway on March 22, in a case that has sparked debate over immigration policies. The man charged with her death, Brandon Ortiz-Vite, was in the United States unlawfully, according to immigration officials.
At a rally in Grand Rapids, Mr. Trump described Ruby Garcia and her killing in detail, portraying her as a victim of an illegal immigrant criminal. He claimed to have spoken with her family, a statement that Ruby’s sister, Mavi Garcia, vehemently denies.
Mavi Garcia criticized Mr. Trump for using her sister’s death to push his anti-immigration agenda, stating that the focus should be on remembering Ruby and who she was in life, rather than turning her into a political pawn.
The family was shocked to hear Mr. Trump’s claims that he had spoken with them, as Mavi Garcia confirmed that he did not reach out to them. She expressed disappointment in the former president’s rhetoric, questioning why he chose to highlight the immigration status of the perpetrator rather than focusing on the loss of her sister.
As the case unfolds in court, Mavi Garcia is determined to ensure that her sister’s memory is honored and that the focus remains on seeking justice for Ruby, rather than using her tragic death for political gain.
