Several Senate Democrats have indicated their intention to support a bill that would require federal authorities to detain illegal immigrants who are convicted of theft. This development enhances the chances of the legislation passing in the Senate, as at least ten Democrats are expected to vote for it, potentially allowing it to reach the necessary 60 votes to overcome a filibuster if all Republicans also support it. Following that, the Senate would enter into debate on the bill, which would only require a simple majority, or 51 votes, to ultimately pass and be sent to the president.
Among the Democratic senators expressing their backing for the bill are Mark Kelly, Jacky Rosen, Ruben Gallego, Gary Peters, John Hickenlooper, Angus King, Jeanne Shaheen, Jon Ossoff, Elissa Slotkin, and John Fetterman. Senator Richard Blumenthal has also indicated that he is likely to support the bill. Rosen stated, "You know, I plan to support it. Because if you're a criminal, you should be held accountable." However, Hickenlooper's office revealed that he supports letting the bill advance for amendments but does not agree with its current form.
A senior Republican staff member suggested they have enough votes to initiate a full debate on the bill, a sentiment echoed by Senator Kelly. The legislation, known as the Laken Riley Act, passed the House recently and is named after a nursing student who was killed by an illegal immigrant last year. The act not only mandates that illegal immigrants guilty of theft, burglary, or shoplifting be detained until deportation but also allows states to sue the Department of Homeland Security for damages caused by illegal immigration. The individual responsible for Riley's death had prior arrests but had not been detained by ICE.
The introduction of this bill at the beginning of the new Congress underscores that addressing illegal immigration remains a significant concern for both Republicans and some Democrats, particularly with the upcoming 2026 elections. With illegal immigration being a pivotal issue in recent races and campaigns, several senators who support the bill are preparing for re-election battles in the near future, indicating its potential impact on the political landscape.
12 Comments
Marishka
Illegal immigrants shouldn't be above the law. This bill ensures they are held accountable for their crimes like everyone else.
Pupsik
This bill is discriminatory and cruel. It targets immigrants based solely on their legal status, not the severity of the crime.
Marishka
This bill won't deter crime. It's a waste of resources and will only increase the prison population, costing taxpayers money.
Pupsik
This is a political stunt aimed at scapegoating immigrants for societal problems. We need real solutions, not scapegoats.
Marishka
This is a step in the right direction towards securing our borders and enforcing our immigration laws.
Loubianka
This is a small price to pay for ensuring the safety and security of law-abiding citizens.
KittyKat
This bill ignores the root causes of illegal immigration, such as poverty and violence in immigrants' home countries. Addressing these issues is essential for long-term solutions.
Katchuka
This bill will offer some closure to Laken Riley's family and hopefully prevent similar tragedies.
Eugene Alta
This is about public safety. An illegal immigrant previously arrested for violent crimes shouldn't have been free to kill Laken Riley.
Noir Black
This bill punishes families and children for the actions of one individual. This is unjust and inhumane.
Eugene Alta
This is another example of politicians using fear and division to gain power. We need leaders who will unite us, not divide us.
Katchuka
The American people overwhelmingly support enforcing immigration laws, and this bill reflects that sentiment.