Key Takeaways:
- Connecticut Democrat Jahana Hayes expressed regret over her vote for the Laken Riley Act during a CNN town hall.
- The act allows noncitizens accused of certain crimes to be held without bail, even if charges are dropped.
- Hayes initially supported the bill due to a provision related to crimes against police officers but now feels differently.
- She criticized the Trump administration’s approach to immigration, saying immigrants are being “terrorized” by uncertainty.
- Hayes admitted she trusted the administration’s intentions earlier but now feels cautious about future votes.
A Connecticut Democrat recently admitted she regrets voting for a controversial immigration law. Representative Jahana Hayes made the statement during a CNN town hall, where lawmakers discussed the Laken Riley Act. Her comments have sparked attention, as she openly expressed her change of heart.
What Is the Laken Riley Act?
The Laken Riley Act was signed into law by President Donald Trump in late January. It targets noncitizens accused of specific crimes, such as theft, burglary, or assaulting a police officer. Even if charges are dropped, these individuals can be held without bail. The law applies to asylum seekers and those with legal status, like DACA recipients. Minors are also not exempt.
The law is named after Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing student killed by an asylum applicant with a criminal history. Supporters argue it’s about public safety, while critics say it undermines due process.
The Town Hall Debate
During the CNN town hall, lawmakers like Rep. Derek Tran (D-CA) and Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-CT) faced questions about their support for the act. Democrat Johnny Nguyen, an energy engineer, asked Tran about the law. Nguyen expressed concerns about Trump’s immigration policies and whether due process still exists in America.
Tran explained his vote, saying, “When you commit a crime, you should be deported. It made sense to me—as a lawyer, I believe in law and order as well.” Tran, the son of Vietnamese immigrants, emphasized his empathy for immigrants but drew a line at crime.
Hayes, however, took a different stance. She admitted she regretted her vote, saying, “It’s a vote that I regret. As I’ve thought about it over the last couple of months, I probably would have voted differently.”
Why Did Hayes Change Her Mind?
Hayes initially supported the bill because of a specific provision related to crimes causing injury or death to police officers. However, she has since reconsidered. She criticized the law for targeting immigrants who are already following the rules. “Immigrants across this country are being terrorized right now because they are unsure of what happens next,” she said.
Hayes also expressed distrust in the Trump administration. Initially, she believed the administration wanted to work with Democrats on border security. But she now feels cautious. “I’ve seen the rhetoric that has come out and the attacks that have been targeted toward immigrants. So I’m very cautious and careful when I’m negotiating my votes moving forward.”
A Notable Response
When Hayes finished speaking, CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins called her response “notable.” Collins said, “It’s notable, Congresswoman, to hear you say you regret that vote.”
Hayes’ comments highlight the ongoing debate over immigration policies and their impact on communities. Her willingness to admit regret shows the complexity of making decisions in politics, where votes can have far-reaching consequences.
In the end, Hayes’ statement serves as a reminder that lawmakers are human and can change their minds. Her regrets over the Laken Riley Act may influence how she and others approach future legislation. As the immigration debate continues, voices like Hayes’ will play a crucial role in shaping the conversation.