Senate Advances Immigration Bill Amid Filibuster Challenge

The Senate has advanced the Laken Riley Act, a bill mandating detention of undocumented immigrants charged with theft and other crimes, following the murder of Laken Riley by an undocumented Venezuelan immigrant. A bipartisan vote of 82-10 moved the bill towards final passage, though amendments are being debated to address concerns about its impact, with Democrats seeking changes to require convictions before detention and exemptions for minors and Dreamers. The bill allows state attorneys general to sue the federal government for failures to enforce immigration laws, raising concerns over potential political litigation. Critics, including Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty, label the bill as xenophobic, arguing it uses immigration reform as a guise for a crackdown on non-citizens. Republican support highlights a focus on immigration as a legislative priority, aligning with President-elect Trump's campaign promises. The bill now faces a filibuster that requires further Democratic support to pass.