Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) voiced strong support for the deportation of illegal immigrants who commit crimes, calling it a matter of “common sense” during an appearance on Fox News’ Special Report. Fetterman pointed to a lack of bipartisan support for the proposed Laken Riley Act as a key reason Democrats lost in the 2024 elections.
The Laken Riley Act seeks to expedite the deportation of illegal immigrants convicted of crimes in the United States. Fetterman criticized members of his own party for not rallying behind the measure, which failed to secure the seven Democratic votes needed to overcome a Senate filibuster.
“I don’t know why anybody thinks it’s controversial that they all need to go,” Fetterman said, referencing the deportation of illegal immigrants who commit additional crimes while in the U.S. “We have hundreds of thousands of migrants here illegally that have been convicted of crimes, and I don’t understand who would defend allowing them to remain in our nation.”
Fetterman highlighted the political consequences of failing to address illegal immigration and crime, stating, “If we can’t get at least seven out of 47 Senate Democrats to back this, then that’s one of the reasons why we lost.”
The Pennsylvania senator reiterated that deporting illegal immigrants involved in criminal activity should be a straightforward, non-partisan issue. “I don’t know why it’s controversial to anybody,” he said.
The Laken Riley Act has gained traction among Republicans but has faced resistance from some Senate Democrats who argue that aspects of the bill may disproportionately affect certain communities. Fetterman’s comments reflect growing frustration within his party over perceived weaknesses in addressing crime and immigration, issues that many believe influenced voter sentiment in the 2024 elections.
Fetterman’s remarks may signal an effort to bridge divides within his party and appeal to voters seeking stricter immigration enforcement. The debate over the Laken Riley Act is expected to continue in the new Congress.
