Democrats who helped to pass the Laken Riley Act failed their first test of the second Trump era
MSNBCJAN 21
Trump Signs Laken Riley Act Into Law
Above: US Pres. Donald Trump signs the Laken Riley Act at an event in the East Room at the White House on Jan. 29, 2025 in Washington, DC. Image copyright: Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post/Contributor via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The Laken Riley Act restores basic common sense and the rule of law in America, cracking down on criminal aliens that have long been allowed to prey Americans in their own country. A stronger border means a more secure nation, and that's in the best interest of the American people.
Establishment-critical narrative
Republicans could have approved this legislation without support from across the aisle, but that some Democrats ended up bowing to fear-mongering and sided with the MAGA movement is utterly disgraceful. This law will increase racial profiling and suspend due process for those accused of crimes.