Tue Sep 24 04:15:56 UTC 2024: ## Bipartisan Bill Aims to Deport Illegal Immigrants Convicted of Sex Crimes, Facing Democratic Opposition

**Washington, D.C.** – A bill aimed at deporting undocumented immigrants convicted of sex offenses, including those against children, has passed the House of Representatives, sparking a partisan divide.

Introduced by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), the Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act, making convicted sex offenders ineligible for entry or subject to deportation. The bill also includes undocumented immigrants convicted of domestic violence, stalking, child abuse, or violating protection orders.

“The legislation makes sure those who pose a threat are kicked out before they can cause more harm,” Mace stated in a recent op-ed.

However, the bill faced significant opposition from Democratic lawmakers. Over 150 Democrats voted against the bill, including prominent figures like Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Nancy Pelosi, and Ilhan Omar.

“Here we are again, debating another partisan bill that fearmongers about immigrants,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal, chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, dismissing the legislation as a “weaponization of the crime of domestic violence.”

Jayapal’s comments come amidst a string of high-profile cases involving illegal immigrants arrested for sexual assault, including a recent incident in New York where an Ecuadorian migrant was accused of raping a 13-year-old girl.

Despite the opposition, the bill passed the House with bipartisan support, with all present Republicans voting in favor.

The bill now heads to the Senate, where it faces the scrutiny of Senators Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey, both Democrats from Massachusetts. Warren, known for her pro-women stances, has previously expressed support for legislation aimed at combating sexual assault.

Advocates hope that the bill’s focus on protecting women and children will outweigh partisan politics, ensuring the safekeeping of vulnerable communities.

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