Recently, the House of Representatives passed the Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act with bipartisan support. The bill aims to deport illegal immigrants convicted of sexual offenses or conspiracy to commit such crimes. While all present Republicans voted in favor of the bill, 51 Democratic lawmakers also supported it, resulting in a 266 to 158 vote in favor of the measure.
Notable Democrats who voted for the bill include Reps. Mary Peltola, Marie Gluesenkamp-Perez, Jared Moskowitz, and Hillary Scholten. Two of the Democratic supporters, Rep. Elissa Slotkin and Rep. Abigail Spanberger, are currently seeking higher office.
In addition to deporting migrants convicted of sex crimes, the legislation also deems illegal immigrants who admit to domestic violence or sex-related charges as inadmissible in the U.S. This bill is part of a broader effort by House Republicans to address issues stemming from the ongoing border crisis affecting various cities and states.
Despite facing criticism from Democrats who view the bill as xenophobic, Republican lawmakers argue that it is necessary to protect women and children from violence perpetrated by illegal immigrants. Rep. Mace emphasized the importance of removing individuals who commit such heinous acts from the country.
While some Democrats have criticized the bill as fear-mongering and scapegoating immigrants, there has been modest support from within the party for GOP efforts to address the border crisis. Previously, House Republicans passed a bill to detain and deport migrants convicted of assaulting law enforcement with the support of 54 Democrats.
Furthermore, the GOP-backed Laken Riley Act, named after a nursing student allegedly killed by an illegal immigrant, garnered support from 37 House Democrats. The ongoing debate surrounding immigration policies and border security continues to be a contentious issue in Congress.
