Democrats are showing a marked shift in their approach to immigration policy during President Trump’s second term, contrasting sharply with their unified opposition during his first presidency.
While some Democrats continue to resist Trump’s immigration agenda, others are now crossing party lines to support tougher border measures, exemplified by the recent passage of the Laken Riley Act with support from 58 Democratic legislators.
The legislation, named after a Georgia nursing student killed by an undocumented Venezuelan immigrant, requires federal authorities to detain migrants accused of certain crimes. This Democratic support for stricter immigration enforcement represents a significant departure from the party’s previous stance and reflects growing public concern about border security.
Recent polling shows that half of U.S. adults consider increased border security a high priority, with another 30% rating it as a moderate priority. While most Democrats still oppose mass deportation of undocumented immigrants, about 80% support deporting those convicted of violent crimes.
The party’s evolving position is particularly evident in border states. Sen. Ruben Gallego, an Arizona Democrat, has vocally supported measures like the Laken Riley Act, citing constituent demands for enhanced border security and selective deportation policies.
However, this shift has created tension within the Democratic Party. Immigration advocates express frustration over what they see as acquiescence to Trump’s agenda. Vanessa Cárdenas of America’s Voice urged Democrats to “find their backbone and put up a fight.”
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus is attempting to bridge these divides by focusing on protecting mixed-status families, farmworkers, and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program recipients while acknowledging the need for some enforcement measures.
Read more: Democrats are splintered on immigration and how to respond to Trump
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