Boston, MA – The Massachusetts Republican Party is appalled by the decision of the majority of the Massachusetts congressional delegation to vote against the Laken Riley Act. This critical legislation would require U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to take custody of immigrants in the United States illegally who commit heinous crimes, including assault and battery, drug trafficking, illegal firearm possession, sexual assault, and even homicide.

Voting against the Laken Riley Act is indefensible. This bill is a straightforward measure to prioritize public safety and uphold justice. Opposing it is nothing more than a political stunt that disregards the safety of Massachusetts residents.

MassGOP Chair Amy Carnevale expressed her outrage, stating:

“This is a vote against public safety and the rule of law. In the Senate, even a majority of Democrats managed to set aside political posturing to do the right thing. Yet Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey stood among just nine Democrats who voted against this vital bill. Their decision is particularly troubling given Boston’s recent refusal to honor 198 ICE detainer requests.

Those detainers included individuals accused of armed robbery, assault with a dangerous weapon, assault and battery on a police officer, illegal firearm possession, possession of large-capacity weapons, attempted murder, fentanyl distribution, heroin trafficking, and indecent assault and battery. According to federal authorities, this is a public safety crisis.

When you add this vote to recent revelations about crimes and misconduct in migrant shelters and the arrests of individuals here illegally who have committed despicable offenses, it becomes clear that Massachusetts Democrats are ignoring the real consequences of their policies. They’ve chosen to cater to the most extreme progressive factions of their party, leaving our communities vulnerable. On behalf of Massachusetts residents, we are outraged.”

The Massachusetts Republican Party will continue to stand with the people of Massachusetts to demand accountability and advocate for policies that prioritize public safety and justice.