President Donald Trump on Wednesday triggered backlash when — during an event to mark the installation of new flagpoles at the White House — he asked if any of the workers who were standing behind him during a photo-op were undocumented.Trump, whose administration has pursued a fierce anti-immigration agenda, turned to the workers and asked: “Any illegal immigrants?”“They’ll find out,” he added, seemingly referring to reporters. “They’ll be checking you. You won’t believe it. Your whole life will be destroyed because of this press conference.”He went on: “They’ll end up being, ‘He’s a so-and-so. This one’s from you-know-where.’”Appearing to try to reassure one worker, Trump said: “Don’t worry, I think you’re going to be OK. I’ll be right behind you. Far behind you. I’ll be right behind you.”The comments were swiftly condemned on social media, with critics calling the moment “fucking shameful” and branding Trump “despicable.”Trump to workers putting up flagpoles at White House "Do we have any illegal immigrants here” No response. He said news media, not him would check.“They’ll find out. They’ll check you. Your whole life will be destroyed because of this press conference.”He. Is. Insane.— Janice Hough (@leftcoastbabe) June 18, 2025He is malevolent.— Carolyn C 📚🐈⬛⚕️⚖️🧑🏻🚀💜🎶⁷ (@CarolynMisha) June 19, 2025He’s joking about destroying people’s lives. He’s despicable!— Julie Shanks (@julie_shanks) June 18, 2025Close