Selena Gomez addressed a politician’s comment suggesting she should be deported after posting a now-deleted video of herself crying over recent immigration crackdowns. In the emotional video, Gomez, whose paternal grandparents emigrated from Mexico, expressed sorrow for those affected, saying, “My people are getting attacked.”

Though the video and a follow-up statement were deleted after backlash, it caught the attention of Sam Parker, a former U.S. Senate candidate. On X, Parker accused Gomez of prioritizing undocumented immigrants over Americans and questioned her right to citizenship. He even suggested Gomez should be deported.

Selena Gomez on Dec. 10, 2024, in Los Angeles.

Gomez responded briefly on Instagram, writing, “Oh Mr. Parker, Mr. Parker. Thanks for the laugh and the threat,” before removing the post.

Over the weekend, federal agencies carried out sweeping immigration raids, resulting in 1,200 arrests, though only about half were classified as “criminals.” Critics online questioned Gomez’s statement that she “can’t” do anything, pointing to her celebrity status, while supporters commended her compassion.

Gomez, a producer of the 2019 Netflix series “Living Undocumented,” has spoken openly about immigration issues. In a Time magazine editorial, she shared her family’s journey from Mexico, emphasizing the importance of education and advocacy for undocumented immigrants.