Particle.news
Download on the App Store
35 ARTICLES
·
8mo ago

Trump Pardons Jan. 6 Rioters as Laken Riley Act Passes Congress

The immigration crackdown bill faces criticism for its sweeping measures, while Trump's pardons of Capitol attackers draw backlash from some law enforcement advocates.

A Texas Department of Public Safety official, right, looks on as migrants walk near a rail car covered in Concertina wire at the Texas-Mexico border, Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024, in Eagle Pass, Texas. U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson is leading about 60 fellow Republicans in Congress on a visit to the Mexican border. Their trip comes as they are demanding hard-line immigration policies in exchange for backing President Joe Biden's emergency wartime funding request for Ukraine.
Image
immigration

Overview

  • The Laken Riley Act, named after a murder victim killed by an undocumented immigrant, mandates detention of undocumented individuals charged with certain crimes, including minor offenses like shoplifting.
  • The bill passed both the House and Senate with bipartisan support but faces criticism for potentially leading to racial profiling and mass deportations, including of Dreamers and TPS holders.
  • Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) estimates the act's implementation will require $26 billion in the first year, raising concerns about funding and feasibility given the current immigration court backlog.
  • President Trump issued pardons for 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack, including those who assaulted law enforcement officers, prompting condemnation from some lawmakers and police advocates.
  • Critics argue that while the Laken Riley Act emphasizes strict immigration enforcement, Trump's pardons undermine his stated commitment to 'law and order' by excusing violent acts against police.