Rep. Randy Fine, a conservative Republican from Florida, has announced plans to introduce legislation that would bar noncitizens from receiving any form of welfare benefits, including food aid, housing support, Medicaid, and cash assistance. In a post on X, Fine stated that noncitizens who seek government support should ‘go home,’ emphasizing a strict stance on immigration and national identity.
While U.S. citizenship is a constitutional requirement for serving in Congress, Fine has also pushed for a separate measure that would prevent individuals with dual or foreign citizenship from holding federal office. The proposal argues that dual citizenship is acceptable for private citizens but not for lawmakers, citing concerns over national interests in a globalized world.
These efforts align with a broader conservative push to reform welfare policies and tighten immigration controls. Fine, a former state legislator, gained national attention when former President Donald Trump endorsed him in 2024, calling the GOP candidate ‘the best’ among all potential contenders. Trump also praised Fine’s work in Congress, reaffirming his support ahead of upcoming elections.
Fine’s actions are part of a growing trend within the Republican Party to prioritize national security and traditional values over inclusive welfare programs. His proposals have sparked debates about the role of government in ensuring social safety nets and the ethical implications of denying aid to noncitizens based on immigration status.