The Hyundai plant raid in Georgia triggered an immediate firestorm across political and social platforms on Thursday. Federal agents arrested around 475 individuals, most of them reportedly Korean nationals. The raid occurred at a Hyundai mega plant located 20 miles outside of Savannah.
Officials confirmed the raid was part of a long-term immigration investigation. It aligns with ongoing efforts under President Trump’s Operation Take Back America. The battery factory under construction, rather than the EV assembly section, was the main focus of the operation.
Although the event shocked many, Hyundai stated that no direct employees appear among those arrested. The company also pledged full cooperation with authorities. LG Energy Solution, which contributes to the project, echoed this stance and committed to working closely with investigators.
Nevertheless, reactions spread quickly across the political spectrum. Some commentators noted that politicians from both parties had praised the factory. Former President Biden openly celebrated the site as a win for American manufacturing. That praise sparked criticism from voices on the political right.
Scientist Matt Van Swol posted on X, “Even when Democrats pretend to be America-First, they are secretly America Last. Every single time.” Other industry leaders welcomed the raid as long overdue. Maik Peters, CEO of Pitco Engineering, said, “American companies with legal workers lose these mega deals. Finally, someone is taking action.”
Meanwhile, critics of the Trump administration condemned the raid as extreme and counterproductive. Writer James Surowiecki expressed frustration. He wrote that the U.S. encouraged Korean investment and then arrested Korean nationals helping to build the plant.
South Korea also raised concerns about the arrests. The incident caused diplomatic tension that may grow in the coming days. Georgia Representative Nikema Williams called the Hyundai plant raid an “act of cruelty and injustice.” She said lawful residents were possibly detained during the operation.
Williams warned that constitutional rights must apply to all workers. She accused the Trump administration of creating chaos in vulnerable communities. “Due process is not optional,” she posted.
On the other hand, Republican Representative Buddy Carter praised the enforcement action. He blamed Democrats for years of weak immigration policy. Carter applauded Operation Take Back America and said the Hyundai plant raidproved Trump’s dedication to protecting U.S. workers.
“Anyone giving jobs to illegal immigrants should think again,” Carter said. “Not under Donald Trump’s watch.”
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