During a CNN town hall-style interview, Rep. Hayes stated: “As I’ve thought about it, over the last couple of months, I probably would have voted differently. It’s a vote that I regret. I understand how immigrants across this country, who are here legally and have followed the law, are being terrorized right now because they are unsure of what happens next. I voted for that piece of legislation because of a very specific provision, and it was if it caused injury or death to a police officer, which was one small piece of it.”

Out of touch @JahanaHayesCT just said she “REGRETS” voting for the Laken Riley Act.

This BIPARTISAN law helps get criminal illegal immigrants off the streets and prevent tragedies like Laken Riley’s murder from happening again. #CT05 pic.twitter.com/zNCsy9Q5PT

— NRCC (@NRCC) April 11, 2025

Fox News outlined the simple parameters surrounding the bill—how does a member of Congress come to regret such a common sense vote? Maybe pressure from leftist groups or constituents, but at some point, you still have to do what’s best for the country. The bill: 

• Requires DHS to detain illegal criminals who are charged with a theft-related crime or assault of a law enforcement officer. 

• Allows state AGs to sue the federal government for injunctive relief if they believe DHS fails to enforce immigration detention or removal requirements. 

• Prohibits the Secretary of State from granting visas to citizens of countries that refuse to accept their nationals deported from the U.S.

• Does not allow release from detention even if criminal charges are dropped. 

READ MORE: GOP Congressman Shuts Down Democrat Colleague in Tense Exchange on Laken Riley Act During CNN Town Hall

Again, lowest number of recorded illegal crossings I’ve ever seen.

446 across the southern border is unheard of.

There were 11,000+ in one day in December 2023.

Biden’s final week in office was averaging 1,200-1,400 per day.

And this has all been done via executive action. https://t.co/Zvy7bztQlb

— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) February 4, 2025