Staff Reports
In a bold move that sends a strong message to President Joe Biden, the parents of Laken Riley, a nursing student tragically killed on the University of Georgia campus, have turned down an invitation to attend the State of the Union address. The invitation, extended by Rep. Mike Collins (R-GA), was declined in the wake of their devastating loss. Speaking out about the decision, Collins has declared that the seat meant for his guest will stay empty as a poignant tribute to Laken and all the American victims of illegal alien crime.
Collins’ announcement comes as the Biden administration faces mounting pressure to overhaul its approach to the crisis at the southern border. The relentless stream of unlawful border crossings has reached unprecedented levels, prompting calls for Biden to address the issue head-on. One lawmaker, Rep. Jim Banks (R-IN), has urged the president to acknowledge Laken Riley’s tragic fate during his upcoming State of the Union speech.
I invited Laken Riley’s parents to the State of the Union address, but understandably, they have chosen to stay home as they grieve the loss of their daughter.
Therefore, the seat reserved for my guest will remain vacant to honor Laken and all American victims of illegal alien…
— Rep. Mike Collins (@RepMikeCollins) March 6, 2024
The devastating loss of Laken Riley has reignited the national discourse on border security, with Republican leaders placing blame squarely on Biden’s supposed failure to implement effective policies. In response to Riley’s senseless death, Collins has put forth the Laken Riley Act, a legislative proposal that calls for stricter measures to detain immigrants charged with crimes like theft and burglary. The House has laid the groundwork for a potential vote on this crucial legislation, underscoring the urgency of the matter.
Rep. Collins minced no words in connecting Riley’s untimely demise to the administration’s lax border policies, emphasizing that her dreams of becoming a nurse were cruelly cut short due to their recklessness. He has taken a bold stand, demanding swift action and accountability by pushing for the immediate consideration and passage of the Laken Riley Act.
As the nation awaits President Biden’s State of the Union address, all eyes are on how he will tackle the pressing issues of immigration and the economy. With Republicans poised to challenge his approach, the president’s ability to navigate this turbulent landscape will be put to the test. Any attempt to shift blame onto GOP divisions or a purported lack of cooperation will likely face staunch opposition from the Republican camp.
