Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman is the first Democrat committed to attending President Donald Trump’s signing of the Laken Riley Act, a bill mandating the detention of more undocumented immigrants charged with crimes.
“I believe a secure border creates a more secure nation and it’s just common sense,” Fetterman said in a statement. “I believe a stronger border is fully compatible with my commitment to immigration.”
He also said, “I also believe our nation should protect our Dreamers,” referring to young people who were brought into the U.S. as children by undocumented immigrants and who many conservatives believe should be deported.
The news comes after Sen. Ruben Gallego of Arizona, who was the second Senate Democrat to co-sponsor the bill, said he won’t be going to the event at the White House on Wednesday afternoon.