Representative Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.) has publicly stated her regret for voting in favor of the Laken Riley Act. In an interview with CNN's Kaitlan Collins, Hayes explained that she believes the law is being misapplied and is contributing to a climate of fear among legal migrants. The Laken Riley Act, named after a Georgia nursing student allegedly killed by an undocumented immigrant, aims to increase penalties for crimes committed by individuals who are not legally authorized to be in the United States.
Hayes argued that the law's implementation has resulted in the targeting and intimidation of legal migrants, leading to widespread anxiety within these communities. She also pointed to the immigration policies of the previous Trump administration as a contributing factor to the current situation. Hayes emphasized the importance of distinguishing between undocumented immigrants who commit crimes and the vast majority of migrants who are law-abiding members of society. Her statement has reignited debate surrounding the Laken Riley Act and its potential unintended consequences on legal immigration.
Rep. Hayes Regrets Vote on Laken Riley Act, Cites Migrant Concerns
Democratic Representative Jahana Hayes of Connecticut has expressed regret for her vote in favor of the Laken Riley Act. Speaking on CNN, Hayes stated that the law, intended to address concerns about undocumented immigrants and crime, is now being used to create fear among legal migrants. She also criticized the previous Trump administration's immigration policies for contributing to this climate. The Laken Riley Act has been a source of controversy since its passage, sparking debate over its impact on immigration enforcement and migrant communities.