TRENTON, NJ — U.S. Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey was one of only nine Senate Democrats to vote against the Laken Riley Act, a Republican-backed immigration bill aimed at expediting the deportation of criminal noncitizens before they commit violent crimes. The bill passed a key procedural vote on Thursday with an overwhelming 84-9 majority, clearing the 60-vote threshold to begin debate.
The proposed legislation, which has garnered bipartisan support, seeks to expand the government’s authority to deport undocumented immigrants with prior criminal convictions, even if they have not committed violent offenses. Proponents argue the measure is a necessary step to protect families and prevent potential crimes, while critics have expressed concerns about due process, overreach, and its impact on immigrant communities.
While many Senate Democrats supported advancing the bill, several—including Kim—voiced opposition. Their concerns center on the bill’s potential to disproportionately target individuals who may have already served their sentences for minor offenses and its broader implications for civil liberties.
The Senate’s vote to advance the Laken Riley Act comes amid renewed focus on immigration reform and enforcement policies. Although the bill has significant bipartisan backing at this stage, Democrats have signaled their intent to introduce amendments before the final vote, which could reshape the legislation or stall its progress.