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Republican Lawmakers Aim to Reform Immigration System to Thwart Crime

 November 4, 2024

House and Senate Republicans are gearing up to launch a comprehensive immigration reform agenda if former President Donald Trump retakes the Oval Office in 2025.

The GOP lawmakers' legislative initiatives are designed to enhance enforcement measures, streamline deportation processes, bolster border security, and reverse the trend of migrant crime they say has been facilitated by the Biden-Harris administration, as Breitbart reports.

As part of this agenda, Sens. Ted Cruz and Bill Hagerty along with Reps. Mark Green, Byron Donalds, and Troy Nehls have been acknowledged by the National Immigration Center for Enforcement (NICE) for their vigorous efforts in immigration reform. These lawmakers have been recognized for their attempts to reinforce immigration laws and support Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.

RJ Hauman, president of NICE, commended these figures for their dedication to upholding the rule of law amidst a contentious political climate. Hauman emphasized the lawmakers' efforts to counteract the negative portrayal of ICE's mission and its personnel.

Hagerty and Donalds are taking the lead on the Reshape ATD Act, legislation targeting the facilitation of deportations for individuals entering the United States during the Biden-Harris era. The bill aims to enhance the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) ability to identify, detain, and deport undocumented immigrants in the country.

Proposed Changes to DHS Operations

Criticizing the current administration’s approach, Hagerty accused President Biden, Vice President Harris, and DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas of transforming DHS into what he described as a "social services agency" for undocumented individuals. This sentiment underscores the Republican perspective that the Biden-Harris administration's policies have prioritized non-citizens over the security concerns of American citizens.

The proposed Reshape ATD Act would redirect resources to ICE, urging the use of all available detention facilities and reducing reliance on alternative accommodations like those offered under the Shelter and Services Program. This program has been scrutinized for offering accommodations that some perceive as overly lenient.

Hagerty underscored the need for congressional backing to provide ICE with the necessary resources to execute mass deportations. He highlighted the current lack of Democratic support for ending sanctuary city policies, which he believes contribute to ongoing immigration challenges.

Focus on Immigration Detention Capacity

In his role as chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, Green has signaled a focus on increasing ICE's detention capacity. Green has described the Biden-Harris administration's immigration measures as "open borders, anti-enforcement policies" and aims to enhance oversight and accountability of these practices.

Additionally, the Justice for Jocelyn Act is gaining traction among Republicans. Named after 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray, who was allegedly killed by two undocumented immigrants in Texas, the act is co-sponsored by Cruz and Nehls, aiming to ensure that DHS utilizes all detention beds and requires GPS monitoring for released immigrants.

Cruz has expressed a strong commitment to passing this act, voicing hopes for its enactment under another term of President Trump. He emphasized the importance of justice for American victims of crimes allegedly committed by undocumented individuals.

Preparing for Potential Immigration Reform

NICE President Hauman reiterated the importance of congressional support in providing the resources necessary for large-scale deportations should Trump return to the presidency. Hauman underlined the pivotal role Congress would play in the event of a Trump-led executive focus on immigration enforcement.

Key figures leading this charge include Cruz, Hagerty, and their counterparts, who are poised to ensure that legislative efforts align with their envisioned future where ICE operations receive full support.

For these reforms to take shape, the Republicans believe it is crucial for former President Trump to secure a second term, which they view as integral to furthering their proposed immigration policies.

Political Tensions Over Immigration Policy Persist

As the national debate over immigration continues, these developments underscore a distinct political divide. Republican lawmakers are set on reversing what they see as detrimental policies implemented by the Biden-Harris administration.

Supporters argue that stringent enforcement measures are essential for national security, while critics persist with concerns over the humanitarian implications of such policies.

Looking ahead the imminent election, immigration policy is poised to remain a focal point of partisan contention, potentially shaping both legislative priorities and electoral strategies.

Continued Battles and Future Outlook

With preparations underway for a possible Republican-led push towards immigration reform, those on Capitol Hill continue to engage in fervent discussions.

Their legislative blueprints, underscored by a focus on bolstering border security and deportation capabilities, signal a determination to enact change should political tides shift in their favor.

Amid a politically charged landscape, how these developments unfold may have significant implications for U.S. immigration policies and broader national discourse.