In a move that’s sure to ruffle some feathers—and, let’s be honest, it’s about time—President Donald Trump has signed the Laken Riley Act into law. This legislation mandates the detention of illegal immigrants accused of crimes like theft, burglary, and assaulting law enforcement officers. Named in honor of Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing student tragically murdered by an illegal immigrant, the act aims to prevent such senseless crimes in the future.

Now, you might be wondering, why did it take so long for something so straightforward to become law? Well, welcome to Washington, where common sense often takes a backseat to political posturing. The Laken Riley Act is the first piece of legislation signed by President Trump in his second term, marking a significant step in his administration’s commitment to strengthening immigration enforcement.

The act requires the Department of Homeland Security to detain illegal immigrants who are charged with theft-related crimes, assaulting a police officer, or any crime resulting in death or serious bodily injury. It also empowers state attorneys general to sue the federal government if it fails to enforce these provisions. In other words, it’s about holding the feds accountable—what a novel concept.

Critics, predictably, are up in arms. Some argue that the law could lead to mass detentions and infringe on due process rights. Others claim it’s a xenophobic overreach that exploits personal tragedy for political gain. But let’s cut through the noise. The primary goal here is to protect American citizens from individuals who have no legal right to be in this country and who commit crimes against our people.

The tragic case of Laken Riley underscores the necessity of this legislation. In February 2024, Riley was murdered by José Antonio Ibarra, an illegal immigrant from Venezuela with a history of criminal charges, including theft. Despite his criminal record and illegal status, Ibarra remained in the U.S., ultimately committing a heinous act that took a young woman’s life. This law seeks to prevent such failures in our immigration system.

Of course, enforcing this law will require resources. The Department of Homeland Security will need to ensure that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has the capacity to detain individuals as mandated. This may involve expanding detention facilities and increasing personnel—a small price to pay for the safety and security of American citizens.

Some states have already expressed support for the act, eager to utilize the provision allowing them to sue the federal government for non-compliance. This could lead to a more balanced power dynamic between state and federal authorities when it comes to immigration enforcement. It’s about time states had more say in protecting their residents.

In signing the Laken Riley Act, President Trump has reaffirmed his commitment to putting American citizens first. While the critics will continue to howl, the fact remains: this law is a necessary step toward restoring law and order and ensuring that those who break our laws face the consequences. It’s a win for justice, a win for accountability, and most importantly, a win for the American people.