A vote Democrats should remember in September
Congressional candidate Paige Beauchemin recently pointed out that all four members of New Hampshire’s federal delegation voted for the Laken Riley Act. That includes Senators Shaheen and Hassan, along with Representatives Pappas and Goodlander. As Democrats prepare to cast their primary ballots this September, it is a fact worth remembering.
Recent events have caused many voters to look at immigration enforcement very differently than they did only weeks ago. That makes this an appropriate time to revisit one of the most consequential immigration votes Congress has taken in recent years.
Supporters framed the legislation as a public safety measure. Critics argued it would expand mandatory detention, weaken due process protections and further empower an immigration enforcement system already facing serious questions about accountability. Each and every member of New Hampshire’s federal delegation supported the bill.
Campaigns focus on promises about the future. Elections should also be about accountability for the past. Before casting a ballot this September, Democrats should ask themselves whether that vote reflects the kind of judgment they want representing New Hampshire in Washington.
Beauchemin deserves credit for reminding voters of a record that might otherwise have received less attention. She has raised an important question every Democratic voter should answer before casting a primary ballot: Did New Hampshire’s federal delegation get the Laken Riley Act right?