Federal officials have cautioned that the implementation of the law may encounter challenges due to insufficient federal resources, raising concerns about the capacity to detain individuals.

Critics argue that the bill undermines due process by allowing for the deportation of individuals charged with crimes prior to conviction, which could lead to wrongful deportations.

Democratic leaders are divided on immigration reform, with some advocating for stricter measures while others emphasize the need to support migrants already residing in the U.S.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has emphasized the necessity of detaining and deporting illegal immigrant criminals, reinforcing the bill's alignment with a tougher stance on immigration.

ICE has raised alarms about the bill's implementation, estimating a need for $26 billion in additional funding to manage the anticipated increase in detention and deportation activities.

Concerns have also been raised about the act's potential impact on immigrants protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which Trump previously sought to end.

Opponents of the law, including Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have warned that it could erode the rule of law and lead to negative consequences for many immigrants.

The recent bipartisan support for the bill marks a notable shift in the Democratic stance on immigration following electoral losses in battleground states, reflecting a complex political landscape.

On January 22, 2025, the Senate passed the Laken Riley Act, a significant piece of legislation that mandates federal authorities to detain migrants accused of theft and violent crimes, aligning closely with President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

The bill received bipartisan support in the House of Representatives, passing with a vote of 263 to 156, which included backing from approximately forty Democrats, highlighting divisions within the party regarding immigration issues.

However, the bill has faced criticism for its projected cost of $83 billion over three years, with Democratic Senator Patty Murray warning that it could lead to chaos in the immigration system.