NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Metro Councilmember David Benton, who represents Nashville’s District 28, has come under fire following controversial comments about immigration made at a recent press conference.
The event, held alongside Tennessee Congressman Andy Ogles, focused on a federal investigation into the Nashville Mayor’s Office concerning allegations of “aiding and abetting” illegal immigration. Benton called for a state or federal audit of the Belonging Fund—a community initiative established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee (CFMT) and Metro Nashville—to determine whether any funds are inadvertently supporting illegal immigration.
The Belonging Fund was created in response to increased immigration enforcement activity in Nashville. It aims to provide financial support to nonprofit organizations addressing housing instability, childcare, and other urgent needs but explicitly excludes funding for legal services. The CFMT has stated that the fund is supported solely by private donations, with no government money involved.
During the press conference, Benton urged the public to “stop making a mockery of Memorial Day” and called to “defend Nashville, defend Tennessee, defend this country, and stop the invasion,” comments that sparked strong reactions.
In response, Metro Council’s Immigrant Caucus issued a statement condemning Benton’s language and calling his conduct “unbecoming of an elected official,” especially given the large Latino population in his district.
“Councilmember Benton does not deserve to hold public office,” the statement said.
Local residents also voiced opposition. Trent Benge, an Antioch resident, spoke at a Tuesday night meeting, stating, “Councilmember Benton must resign, and if he won’t, we’ve got our work cut out for us.”
Benton later released a statement defending his remarks and clarifying his position. He emphasized his support for legal immigration and his commitment to serving all constituents regardless of their immigration status.
“I have always said I support Legal immigration 100%. I love all my constituents and answer every call without asking someone’s race or immigration status,” Benton said. He added that enforcement of immigration laws falls under federal jurisdiction and encouraged community leaders to focus on helping immigrants pursue legal status.
Benton also referenced U.S. Code 1324, highlighting that encouraging unauthorized immigrants to remain in the country is a violation of federal law.
“As leaders, we should not be cruel and give those in danger of enforcement actions a false sense of security,” he said.
The controversy reflects ongoing tensions in Nashville surrounding immigration policy, community support efforts, and political leadership.
