Republican senators demanded Wednesday that the Senate pass legislation to press the government to deport illegal immigrant thieves, burglars and shoplifters, saying it can help oust dangerous illegal immigrants before they commit more serious crimes.
The senators introduced the Laken Riley Act, named after the Georgia student whose slaying has been blamed on an illegal immigrant, and asked Democrats who control the chamber for quick action.
“Make no mistake – Laken Riley’s heartbreaking murder was a direct, preventable consequence of willful open border policies by President Biden and his administration,” said Sen. Katie Britt, Alabama Republican and one of the chief sponsors of the bill.
A version of the bill cleared the House last week in a 251-170 vote, with more than three dozen Democrats joining the GOP in backing the legislation.
Riley’s death has proved a watershed moment in the immigration debate, creating a very tragic victim for what is usually portrayed as a victimless crime.
Authorities have charged Jose Ibarra, an illegal immigrant from Venezuela, with her killing. Mr. Ibarra was caught and released through Mr. Biden’s “parole” program for illegal immigrants, and had several run-ins with the law during his time here, but was still out in the community when Riley was killed last month.
“We simply cannot tolerate any more senseless tragedies like this one. What happened to Laken Riley should never happen to any American citizen,” said Sen. Ted Budd, North Carolina Republican, who is joining Ms. Britt in leading the effort on the Senate bill.
The legislation would push Homeland Security to find space to detain and try to deport illegal immigrants who are charged with or convicted of burglary, theft, larceny or shoplifting. The bill would also create legal “standing” for states to sue the administration over policies that seem to be more lenient than the law calls for when it comes to immigration.
Among the nearly three dozen GOP senators signed onto the bill is Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Kentucky Republican.
• Stephen Dinan can be reached at sdinan@washingtontimes.com.