The parents of Laken Riley, the young nursing student tragically slain on the University of Georgia campus, have made a statement by choosing to decline attendance at President Biden’s State of the Union address, opting instead to mourn their daughter’s loss at home.
U.S. Rep. Mike Collins of Georgia revealed that he extended an invitation to Riley’s parents, but they respectfully declined.
Laken Riley.
Say her name, @JoeBiden.pic.twitter.com/3r5AYUn9h1
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) March 7, 2024
Collins emphasized their decision, stating, “Therefore, the seat reserved for my guest will remain vacant to honor Laken and all American victims of illegal alien crime.”
Laken Riley, just 22 years old, was brutally murdered while jogging on her college campus.
Her alleged killer, Jose Antonio Ibarra, a Venezuelan national residing unlawfully in the United States, has been charged with her murder.
Two names you won't hear Joe Biden say at the State of the Union:
Laken Riley.
Jeremy Poou-Caceres. pic.twitter.com/H50ekjuRCH
— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) March 7, 2024
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, particularly directed at President Biden’s immigration policies due to the ongoing border crisis, which Biden seems to have no idea how to fix. Collins slammed Biden over the matter, declaring, “As Joe Biden attempts to paint a rosy picture of the crime-ridden country he has created, he will look up at an empty seat that memorializes those we’ve lost because of his open border policies.”
University of Georgia murder suspect Jose Antonio Ibarra was just in court.
No bond.
Media was allowed in, but not allowed to show Ibarra on camera.
His lawyer argued he should not be shown on camera in jail clothing, and judge agreed so we could not show him. pic.twitter.com/mG8BrRtPE6— Brian Entin (@BrianEntin) February 24, 2024
In response to Riley’s murder, Collins introduced the Laken Riley Act, aimed at tightening immigration enforcement measures to prevent similar tragedies. The legislation, passed by a narrow margin in the House, mandates immigration authorities to detain illegal immigrants charged with theft or burglary, a crucial step in addressing the risks posed by an open southern border.
Before his arrest for Riley’s murder, Ibarra had a history of encounters with law enforcement, including prior arrests for endangering a child and misdemeanor shoplifting.
The Laken Riley Act seeks to prevent such individuals from slipping through the cracks by requiring ICE to issue detainers for illegal aliens involved in criminal activities.
As the bill advances for further debate in the House, it stands as a testament to the need for decisive action to protect American lives and uphold the rule of law.
