A group of Senate Democrats is preparing to back a bill aimed at strengthening measures against illegal immigrants convicted of theft. This action is expected to enhance the bill’s prospects in the Senate, where a vote will determine its future.
At least ten Senate Democrats have indicated they will vote to move the bill forward, which should provide the necessary support to clear a filibuster if all Republican senators also vote in favor. If successful, the Senate will engage in discussions about the bill, which only needs a simple majority of 51 votes to proceed to the president for approval.
Among those supporting the bill are Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), among others. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) has also shown support. Rosen expressed her belief in personal accountability, stating, “If you’re a criminal, you should be held accountable.”
While Hickenlooper has expressed intention to support the bill’s progression for amendments, he does not agree with its current version.
A senior Republican staffer has voiced confidence in obtaining the necessary votes for a full debate, a sentiment echoed by Senator Kelly.
The legislation is called the Laken Riley Act, named after a nursing student tragically killed by an illegal immigrant on a campus in Georgia last year. The bill mandates that federal authorities detain illegal immigrants convicted of theft, burglary, or shoplifting until they are deported. Additionally, it allows states to pursue legal action against the Department of Homeland Security for damages incurred due to illegal immigration.
The case of Laken Riley highlights serious concerns regarding prior arrests of her killer, who had a history that included theft charges but had never been detained by ICE.
As the political landscape shifts, it is evident that addressing illegal immigration remains a central issue for both Republicans and some Democrats, especially with upcoming elections in mind. Senators facing re-election challenges in 2026 are particularly attuned to the implications of immigration policies in their campaigns.
In the wake of ongoing debates about border security and immigrant accountability, the Laken Riley Act stands as a significant legislative move aiming to address these pressing concerns.
