Manatee Review

Congressman Vern Buchanan has introduced new legislation aimed at deporting violent criminal aliens and preventing their entry into the United States. The Criminal Alien Gang Member Removal Act seeks to bar gang-affiliated aliens from entering the country and ensures immediate deportation for those already present. Additionally, the bill disqualifies these individuals from asylum or temporary protected status.

"Violent criminal illegals have no place in our country," Buchanan stated. He criticized the Biden administration, claiming that more effective measures could have prevented tragedies involving individuals like Laken Riley and Jocelyn Nungaray. Buchanan urged Congress to pass his proposed act to prevent future incidents.

The bill is supported by Representatives Riley Moore and Randy Weber. It aims to protect Americans by keeping alien gang members off U.S. streets through prevention of entry and deportation if found participating in gang activities. Currently, deportation is only possible after a conviction for an independent crime.

Under this legislation, criminal alien gang members would not qualify for immigration benefits such as asylum or temporary protected status, which are intended for those in genuine need of protection.

Statistics from Fiscal Year 2024 show over 17,000 illegal aliens with criminal convictions were arrested by U.S. Border Patrol, marking a significant increase since Fiscal Year 2020. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) also makes numerous gang-related arrests annually, including over 10,000 known or suspected gang members in Fiscal Year 2018.

NumbersUSA, an immigration policy group, supports Buchanan's legislation. A spokesperson commented on its potential impact: "Rep. Buchanan’s legislation will assist with removing criminal gang members... Our goal should be as close to zero people crossing our borders illegally."

Buchanan has been active in legislative efforts concerning illegal aliens and public safety. In January 2025, he introduced the Protecting Our Communities from Sexual Predators Act (H.R. 134), focusing on detaining and deporting illegal aliens convicted of sexual assault. He also cosponsored the Laken Riley Act (H.R. 29), signed into law by President Trump, targeting illegal aliens arrested for burglary.