Senate Advances Laken Riley Act on Immigrant Detention

The U.S. Senate advanced the 'Laken Riley Act' with a 61-35 vote, requiring the detention of undocumented immigrants charged with theft-related crimes. This legislation, named after a Georgia nursing student murdered by a Venezuelan national, gained support from ten Senate Democrats, reflecting pressure on the party to address immigration concerns following a significant Republican victory. The bill marks a pivotal moment in Republican immigration reform efforts and is expected to pass the Senate soon, subsequently returning to the House for final approval. While proponents argue it addresses public safety, critics, including immigrant rights groups, warn it undermines due process and civil liberties. The legislation's passage signals potential upcoming shifts in broader immigration policy under the incoming Trump administration. The bill also allows state attorneys general to sue the federal government over perceived failures in immigration enforcement.