Senate Advances Laken Riley Act 84–9; Fetterman Leads Democratic Support

Jan 9, 2025, 03:07 PM

The Laken Riley Act, named after a Georgia nursing student who was murdered by an undocumented immigrant while jogging on the University of Georgia campus, has gained significant bipartisan support in Congress. The House of Representatives passed the bill with a vote of 264–159, including 48 Democrats joining Republicans in favor. The legislation requires federal immigration authorities to detain and deport illegal immigrants who commit theft-related crimes. In the Senate, the act advanced with an 84–9 vote to begin debate, with several Democratic senators, including John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and others expressing support. Senator Fetterman criticized fellow Democrats for opposing the bill, stating, "If we can't come up with at least 7 votes, that's the reason why we lost." Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also voted to advance the act. The final vote in the Senate is expected next week.