Democrats Help Clear Way For Trump's First Legislative Victory

He hasn't even been sworn into office yet and he’s already finding support from Democrats for his immigration agenda in Congress.
Graham Lueilwitz · 10 days ago · 2 minutes read


Trump's Legislative Debut: A Democratic Gift

The Laken Riley Act

With his inauguration imminent, Donald Trump is poised to secure his first legislative triumph thanks to an unexpected ally: Democrats.

The Republican-controlled Senate passed the Laken Riley Act, a controversial immigration bill, with the support of 10 Democratic senators. The bill aims to crack down on undocumented immigrants who commit crimes, even if they are later exonerated.

Critics argue that the legislation infringes on due process rights and increases the risk of deportation for undocumented immigrants, including those brought to the U.S. as children.

Bipartisan Shifts

Democrats' shift towards the right on immigration has been brewing for some time. In 2023, they supported bipartisan legislation strengthening border enforcement.

The party's losses in the 2024 election further accelerated this trend, with more Democrats echoing the GOP stance on issues like crime and immigration.

Public safety is incredibly important to me and my constituents. As a border state, this issue has a significant impact on us.

– Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ)

Even opponents of the Laken Riley Act acknowledged the challenges Democrats face in navigating the politics of immigration.

A Different Trump

Trump's second inauguration marks a stark contrast from 2017, when Democratic resistance surged against his presidency.

This time, Trump enjoys higher favorability ratings and the support of business and tech leaders at his inauguration. The shift is credited to a perceived shift in Democratic messaging.

Democrats may have realized that they were out of step with the American people on issues of border security and public safety.

– Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)

Future Challenges

While the Laken Riley Act represents a victory for Trump, it signals a broader shift in the political landscape.

Republicans have a packed agenda of immigration and other bills, raising concerns among Democrats who fear being sidelined.

We can't let Republicans set the terms. We need to take a strong stance against their insincere border security claims.

– Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT)

Sen. Mazie Hirono worries that Democratic support for the Laken Riley Act bodes poorly for future debates on Trump's agenda.

Will we start locking up children for stealing or denying domestic violence victims protection?

– Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-HI)