A Republican-led bill to deport illegal immigrants convicted of sex crimes has passed the House of Representatives, highlighting deep partisan divides. The Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act, introduced by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), passed 266-158, with 51 Democrats joining all present Republicans in support.

The bill targets illegal immigrants convicted of sexual offenses or related charges, as well as those admitting to domestic violence. Supporters argue it’s a critical step to protect vulnerable populations from violent offenders. However, most Democrats opposed the measure, with Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) accusing Republicans of exploiting immigration issues for political gain.

🚨158 Democrats just voted against deporting illegal immigrants convicted of s*x crimes.

Nancy Mace tried to pass a bill to protect women & children… Dems blocked it.

Remember that next time they claim to care about “safety.” pic.twitter.com/LqGWDgIzUP

— TheCalvinReport (@TheCalvinReport) January 5, 2025

Mace defended the legislation as a necessity, calling those who opposed it “sexist against women.” She emphasized the importance of removing individuals guilty of heinous crimes. “We’re talking about protecting women and children,” Mace said, framing the bill as a straightforward public safety measure.

Nancy Mace exposing the 158 Democrats that voted against deporting all illegal immigrants who committed s*x crimes

Only criminals are afraid of the law. pic.twitter.com/wPVKySRbuP

— Alistair Pallesen (@yzimng2) January 5, 2025

Here is the video of what Mike Lee is referencing from Nancy Mace

US Rep Nancy Mace “We need to stop illegals from hunting our women. We're having a vote — HR 7909 — We would immediately deport illegals who harm women and kids”

158 Democrats voted and BLOCKED HR 7909 pic.twitter.com/Ug7MgPjUmW

— Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) January 5, 2025

While Mace, who has distanced herself from Trump, positioned herself as a champion of the bill, skepticism about her motivations remains. Known for clashing with President Donald Trump, Mace reportedly sought media attention during the January 6 protests by suggesting she confront protesters for publicity. Despite reported attempts to gain notoriety grandstanding against Trump over that day, Mace has since aligned herself with him, raising questions about her consistency.

There is no excuse. Please post the list of people who opposed this law and want to keep illegals who are convicted sex offenders in America.

They all need to be voted out of office. Every one of them. https://t.co/nuimP3Hsm1

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 5, 2025

Here are the 158 Democrats who opposed the deportation of illegal immigrants for sex offenses: pic.twitter.com/clZwJxxRUa

— Defiant L’s (@DefiantLs) January 5, 2025

👀 pic.twitter.com/89pc5eqcXn

— Rothmus 🏴 (@Rothmus) January 4, 2025

Democrats such as Reps. Mary Peltola (D-AK) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) broke ranks to support the bill, signaling growing concern about border-related crime. Slotkin, who is running for Senate, joined other Democrats in prioritizing public safety over party politics.

Good morning to everyone except the 158 Democrats who voted against deporting s*x offenders.

— TaraBull (@TaraBull808) January 5, 2025

This vote follows other Republican efforts to address crime and immigration, such as the Laken Riley Act, which sought to tighten enforcement on violent offenders entering the country illegally.