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The parent of Laken Riley, a nursing student from Georgia who was killed earlier this year, has criticized lawmakers for politicizing his daughter’s tragic passing.
Jason Riley finally broke his silence and discussed his daughter’s passing with NBC News this Monday. She was tragically murdered on February 22nd while out for a jog on the University of Georgia’s campus. Authorities have apprehended 26-year-old Jose Antonio Ibarra, who immigrated from Venezuela to the United States in 2022 and is not a US citizen.
Mr. Riley is currently condemning politicians for exploiting the passing of Ms. Riley for their own political agendas.
“I would prefer for her to not be so politically outspoken, as it has caused turmoil in our country and stirred up a lot of people,” stated Mr. Riley in an interview with NBC News.
“I believe it is being exploited for political gain, in order to secure votes,” he went on. “This makes me frustrated. It seems like they are simply using my daughter’s name for their own benefit. She was much more than that, and she deserves to be recognized as the amazing person she was. She was an angel.”
During President Joe Biden’s recent State of the Union address, the passing of Ms Riley was prominently highlighted. In support, some politicians wore pins with the 22-year-old’s name. However, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Republican from Georgia, disrupted the president’s speech by urging him to acknowledge Ms Riley’s name.
Marjorie Taylor Greene donned a shirt with the phrase “say her name” during the 2024 State of the Union address.
During an impromptu moment, Mr. Biden accepted a pin from Ms. Greene and referred to Laken Riley as a “Lincoln,” an innocent woman who lost her life at the hands of an illegal.
Using the term “illegal” generated criticism from Democrats and immigration activists, to which the president later admitted regret.
During the State of the Union speech, President Joe Biden displayed a lapel pin with Laken Riley’s name on it.
Unfortunately, Mrs. Riley’s parents turned down an invite to listen to a speech by Representative Mike Collins from Georgia. On the other hand, ex-President Donald Trump recently had a meeting with Mrs. Riley’s mother and stepfather before a rally for the Georgia campaign. Mr. Riley also expressed his admiration for Mr. Trump’s immigration initiatives to NBC News.
“Laken has become a symbol for advocating for secure borders and against the illegal immigration policies of the present government. However, there are numerous women whose stories remain untold,” stated Mr. Riley.
Mr. Riley further expressed that he comprehends their desire to immigrate here for a better life. However, he believes that we have the capability to prevent some of the violent crimes, particularly against women, by restricting the entry of gang members and other potential offenders.
Numerous legislators were prompt to condemn the Biden administration following the passing of Ms. Riley.
The Republican governor of Georgia, Brian Kemp, urged the President to enforce more stringent immigration measures.
“For over 24 months, we have requested decisive measures to safeguard our southern border and clarification from the White House regarding the individuals entering our nation,” wrote Mr. Kemp in a February statement. “Despite our inquiries, no response or action has been taken, and now a catastrophic event has occurred. It is imperative that we receive answers and proactive measures from Joe Biden and the White House IMMEDIATELY.”
Last month, the Laken Riley Act, proposed by Mr. Collins, was approved by the US House of Representatives. This bill mandates the detention of any migrant who is found guilty of burglary or theft.
Mr Ibarra was accused of shoplifting in Georgia and was allegedly arrested in New York after his arrest for the murder of Ms Riley. However, The Independent was informed by the New York Police Department that there is no evidence of this previous arrest.
A total of 214 Republicans and 37 Democrats supported the bill. It will now move on to the US Senate, with an uncertain outcome.
Source: independent.co.uk
