Insha Rahman’s remarks at a DNC meeting dismissing concerns over migrant crime and carjackings has sparked conservative outrage, highlighting tensions over crime policy.
Story Overview
- Insha Rahman of the Vera Institute stated migrant crime issues “don’t matter to that many Americans.”
- Her comments were made during a DNC summer meeting, causing a viral backlash.
- Rahman urged Democrats to reject Republican “tough on crime” rhetoric.
- The Vera Institute has been scrutinized for its controversial stances on police reform.
Controversial Remarks and Political Fallout
In August 2025, Insha Rahman, Vice President of Advocacy and Partnerships at the Vera Institute of Justice, delivered remarks at the DNC summer meeting in Minneapolis, dismissing concerns over migrant crime and carjackings. Her comments were intended to encourage Democrats to reject Republican “tough on crime” rhetoric. However, they quickly went viral on social media, drawing significant criticism from conservative commentators who highlighted the Vera Institute’s history of supporting police reform and defunding initiatives.
Social media erupts after DNC speaker says migrant crime, carjackings 'don't matter' to many Americans https://t.co/SHLDq3h1yc
— Fox News (@FoxNews) August 26, 2025
The Vera Institute’s Role in Criminal Justice Reform
The Vera Institute of Justice, founded in 1961, is a nonprofit dedicated to criminal justice reform, advocating for ending mass incarceration and promoting alternatives to traditional policing. The organization gained national attention during the 2020 protests following George Floyd’s murder when it publicly supported calls to dismantle the current culture of policing. Vera’s advocacy and substantial funding from major liberal donors have drawn scrutiny, particularly from conservative media.
At the DNC meeting, Rahman urged Democrats to focus on policy solutions rather than succumbing to “scare tactics” and crime statistics. Her approach reflects the Vera Institute’s mission to challenge “tough on crime” rhetoric and promote dignified, systemic change in criminal justice policy.
An ACTUAL statement at the Democratic National Committee's Summer Meeting in Minneapolis:
"Don't take the bait talking about migrant crime or carjackings or the things that actually don't matter to many Americans." — Vera Institute's Insha Rahmanpic.twitter.com/B9fSUvMsQJ
— Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) August 25, 2025
Political Implications and Future Debates
Rahman’s remarks have heightened partisan tensions over crime and policing, leading to increased scrutiny of the Vera Institute and its funding sources. While Democrats navigate the complex landscape of public safety and reform messaging, President Trump has seized the opportunity to promote law-and-order policies, proposing federal law enforcement deployment and signing an executive order targeting bail reform.
Sources:
Insha Rahman at Vera Institute
Vera Institute Profile: Insha Rahman
National Press Foundation: Insha Rahman
Council on Criminal Justice: Insha Rahman
