SUMMARY: Washington leaders commemorated former President Jimmy Carter during a ceremony at the Capitol, where his body lies in state before a funeral. Carter, who passed away at 100 on December 29, was remembered by House Speaker Mike Johnson as a member of the Greatest Generation, highlighting his thrifty values shaped by his upbringing. Senate Majority Leader John Thune praised Carter’s humanitarian work post-presidency, particularly with the Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity. Vice President Kamala Harris admired his humility and commitment to serving others, recalling personal stories that exemplified his dedication to improving lives and living his faith.

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SUMMARY: House Republicans advanced their first bill, the Laken Riley Act, aimed at tightening immigration laws by mandating the detention of migrants accused of theft, regardless of a conviction. Passed with a 264-159 vote, this legislation seeks to enhance border security, particularly following the murder of Georgia student Laken Riley by a migrant with a previous theft charge. Immigration advocates express concerns about potential violations of due process, as detention would occur upon arrest rather than conviction. The bill has bipartisan support in the Senate, although its future remains uncertain amidst differing Democratic views and concerns about scapegoating immigrants.

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SUMMARY: The U.S. Senate will vote on the Laken Riley Act, which allows law enforcement to detain illegal immigrants accused of crimes. The House passed the bill 264-159, mandating U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain any migrant charged with crimes like burglary or theft. While 216 Republicans and 48 Democrats supported it, 159 Democrats opposed, criticizing it as an “empty measure” that could endanger DACA migrants and violate due process. Proponents argue it enhances public safety and addresses criminality among undocumented individuals. The bill is named after a University of Georgia student murdered by an undocumented migrant with prior offenses.

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