Bill to Deport Illegal Immigrants for Sex Crimes, Domestic Violence Opposed by 158 Democrats

In a move that has sparked outrage among Republicans, 158 House Democrats voted against a bill that seeks to deport illegal immigrants convicted of sex crimes and domestic violence. The “Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act” passed the House with support from 215 Republicans and 51 Democrats, but the majority of Democrats opposed the legislation, leading to heated criticism from GOP members.

The bill, introduced by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to ensure that illegal immigrants convicted of or who have committed sex offenses or domestic violence are both inadmissible and deportable. The legislation also includes provisions for deporting those guilty of stalking, child abuse, neglect, abandonment, or violating protection orders related to threats of violence or harassment.

Rep. Mace highlighted the gravity of the Democrats' opposition, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “158 Left-wing members of Congress just voted against deporting rapists, pedophiles and murderers of women and kids.”

What’s in the Bill?

• Ensures that illegal immigrants convicted of sex offenses, domestic violence, child abuse, or stalking are deported.

• Closes existing loopholes, strengthening U.S. immigration law and ensuring such individuals are not allowed to remain in the country.

• Includes provisions for immigrants who violate protection orders related to violent threats or harassment.

Despite the bill’s seemingly straightforward goal of protecting American citizens, key Democrats objected. Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-NY), ranking member of the Judiciary Committee, dismissed the bill as redundant, claiming that it adds nothing new to current immigration laws. Meanwhile, Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, accused Republicans of using the bill to “fear monger about immigrants” instead of focusing on broader immigration reform.

Republicans, however, argue that the bill is essential to closing gaps in existing law. Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA) stated, “It removes any loopholes in current law and requires that illegal aliens who commit sex offenses or domestic violence are not to be allowed into this country anymore and must be immediately removed.”

Democrats Controversial Opposition

Perhaps the most troubling part of the debate for Republicans came from Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, who, in a September 2021 memo, suggested that domestic violence should not be automatic grounds for deportation. This position has angered conservatives who see it as a failure to prioritize the safety of American citizens.

With the bill now heading to the Democrat-controlled Senate, its future is uncertain. But the House vote has already provided Republicans with a potent new attack line ahead of the 2024 elections. Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) took to X to express his frustration: “DID YOU KNOW: Last night, 158 House Democrats VOTED AGAINST deporting illegal aliens that commit sex crimes & domestic violence. These 158 House Democrats voted against your safety. And we all deserve better. Remember this.”

Election Implications

The Democrats’ opposition to the bill is sure to be a focal point in the upcoming 2024 election cycle. With illegal immigration and public safety consistently ranked as top concerns for voters, Republicans are poised to use this vote as a key argument in favor of tougher immigration enforcement.

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