Staff Reports
Michigan has been rocked by a horrifying tragedy that has sparked outrage among Republicans. A 25-year-old woman, Ruby Garcia, was shot and killed by Brandon Ortiz-Vite, an illegal immigrant who had been deported in 2020 but brazenly reentered the country. To add insult to injury, Ortiz-Vite had also obtained a firearm illegally before using it to ruthlessly take Garcia’s life. The senseless act of violence has reignited the ongoing debate over immigration policies in the state.
Michigan Republicans want to ban sanctuary cities after homicide https://t.co/Qb9uCc2DX1
— John Solomon (@jsolomonReports) March 29, 2024
House Republican Leader Matt Hall didn’t mince words as he pointed the finger of blame squarely at President Joe Biden’s administration for failing to secure the southern border. In a scathing statement, Hall criticized the lax border control measures that have allegedly enabled dangerous criminals like Ortiz-Vite to sneak back into the country. Hall emphasized that the illegal immigration crisis has truly hit close to home, with deadly consequences reverberating through the heart of Michigan.
Before committing this heinous crime, Ortiz-Vite had a troubling history, having been arrested multiple times in Kent County and even convicted of illegal entry into a residence. Despite these red flags, the system failed to keep him out, allowing him to roam freely until he committed the ultimate atrocity. Hall seized upon this glaring loophole to push for stricter enforcement of immigration laws and national security measures.
Hall wasted no time in calling for action, urging the House Government Operations Committee to consider his proposal to ban sanctuary cities and counties. He slammed the so-called “rogue politicians” who have been accused of endangering public safety by refusing to cooperate with federal immigration officials. Hall argued that these sanctuary cities and counties effectively provide a safe haven for criminals like Ortiz-Vite, shielding them from deportation even after committing additional crimes.
Grand Rapids, a designated welcoming city, and Kent County, a sanctuary county, have become focal points in the battle against sanctuary policies. Hall, along with his Republican colleagues, introduced bills aimed at dismantling these policies and preventing other municipalities from adopting similar measures. The proposed legislation seeks to strip sanctuary cities and counties of their ability to hinder federal immigration enforcement efforts, a move that Republicans believe is critical to ensuring the safety of Michigan residents.
The push to ban sanctuary cities has gained traction among Michigan Republicans, with Rep. Cam Cavitt joining forces with Hall to spearhead the effort. Together, they have rallied behind the cause, refusing to back down until their voices are heard and the necessary measures are implemented to safeguard their communities. The tragic loss of Ruby Garcia has become a rallying cry for Republicans, igniting a fierce determination to put an end to sanctuary policies and prevent another senseless tragedy from unfolding on Michigan soil.
