The fallout from the House’s passage of the Laken Riley Act is rippling through progressive circles, with Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) facing sharp criticism for her opposition to the bill. The legislation, named after University of Georgia student Laken Riley, whose life was tragically cut short in 2023 by an illegal immigrant, seeks to expand deportation measures for nonviolent crimes committed by individuals in the country illegally. While supporters argue the bill is a common-sense measure to improve public safety, opponents like Ocasio-Cortez claim it exacerbates racial tensions and undermines due process.
AOC was among 159 Democrats who voted against the bill, placing her at odds with many constituents in New York, a city grappling with rising crime. Critics have taken to social media to demand answers.
@AOC You disgusting human for rejecting the laken riley act…
— jade blade (@jensonchou007) January 8, 2025
Hi – Can you explain to your constituents why you voted against the Laken Riley act? Think we would all like to better understand your position as crime is clearly an issue in all boroughs including Queens. FWIW I am a registered democrat in NYC. Thanks!
— Indy Investor (@IndyInvestor99) January 8, 2025
The Laken Riley Act would expand current immigration laws, allowing deportation after a single conviction for nonviolent crimes such as burglary, theft, or larceny. Existing statutes require two such convictions to trigger deportation. Proponents argue this will close loopholes that have allowed repeat offenders to remain in the U.S. “We’re talking about people who are here illegally and committing crimes—how is this controversial?” asked one supporter of the bill.
Opponents, including members of the Squad like Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), argue the bill targets vulnerable communities. “People deserve to have their day in court and are innocent until proven guilty,” Jayapal said, adding that the legislation would worsen distrust between immigrant communities and law enforcement.
The act also reignites debates over sanctuary city policies, which make enforcing immigration laws in blue states and cities difficult. In places like New York, Chicago, and Boston, local law enforcement often refuses to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. Sanctuary policies allow suspects to post bail and disappear before ICE can intervene, a practice critics say undermines public safety.
While the Laken Riley Act now moves to the Senate, its passage has highlighted stark divisions among Democrats and prompted a wave of backlash against progressive lawmakers like Ocasio-Cortez, who now faces mounting pressure to justify her opposition to the bill.
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