MILWAUKEE − JD Vance, the Republican candidate for vice president, referenced a classic film by Martin Scorsese on Friday while explaining former President Donald Trump’s proposed mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.

During a campaign event in Milwaukee, Vance brought up the 2002 film “Gangs of New York” when responding to questions about his previous remarks concerning how earlier groups of Irish, Italian, and German immigrants were treated regarding deportation threats.

“Has anyone seen ‘Gangs of New York’?” Vance inquired during a press briefing at the Milwaukee Police Association. “That’s the point I’m trying to make.”

Vance explained, “When large ethnic communities develop in our nation, it can sometimes result in increased crime rates. Our goal is to establish an immigration policy that encourages assimilation.”

Studies indicate that migrants do not have a higher propensity for criminal activity than those born in the U.S.

The drama is set in 19th century New York and depicts a conflict between rival gangs of Irish immigrants, one led by an Oscar-winning character played by Leonardo DiCaprio, and anti-immigrant “nativists,” embodied by Daniel Day-Lewis in his portrayal of Bill the Butcher.

Vance’s comments came as he talked about immigration and crime, two critical topics for Republicans during the election campaign.

“We need to take action now to significantly reduce illegal immigration,” Vance asserted. “It is essential that we deport individuals who entered our country unlawfully, as this will facilitate assimilation and foster a unified American culture to benefit everyone.”