SE North Carolina News

Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) expressed his disappointment today after Senate Democrats blocked his amendment to the partial government funding package. The amendment aimed to make assaulting a police officer a deportable offense for illegal immigrants. Senator Budd's amendment sought to address a gap in current law, which does not cover all assaults against law enforcement, allowing some immigrants to remain in the country even after committing such crimes.

Speaking on the Senate floor, Senator Budd highlighted the importance of his proposed amendment in the context of the ongoing border crisis and the tragic consequences that can result from attacks on law enforcement personnel. He referenced a specific incident in North Carolina where Deputy Sheriff Ned Byrd was killed by illegal aliens, emphasizing the need to prevent such tragedies by holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring their deportation.

Senator Budd called on his colleagues to support the POLICE Act, a bill that has already passed the House with bipartisan backing. The bill, which is also supported by the North Carolina Troopers Association, aims to allow for the deportation of illegal aliens who assault police officers, firefighters, or other first responders.

In his impassioned plea, Senator Budd stated, "I believe that if an illegal alien commits the crime of assaulting a police officer, he or she must be subject to immediate deportation. Any Senator who claims to support the police should have no problem supporting my amendment, which would attach the POLICE Act to this funding package."

Despite Senator Budd's efforts and the bipartisan support the bill received in the House, Senate Democrats chose to block the amendment, preventing its inclusion in the funding package. The decision has sparked criticism from Senator Budd and others who advocate for stricter measures against individuals who attack law enforcement officials.

The debate over the amendment reflects broader discussions around immigration policies, law enforcement protection, and the responsibilities of government in addressing public safety concerns. As the issue continues to unfold, the fate of the POLICE Act and its provisions on deporting individuals who assault police officers remains uncertain in the current political landscape.