The relationship between congressional Democrats and immigration advocacy groups has become increasingly strained since the last election, reflecting a shift of the party to the right on border issues. This tension has been accentuated in the face of the Republican offensive against the so-called sanctuary cities, leading activists to redouble their efforts to prevent Democrats from supporting restrictive measures. For these groups, not firmly opposing the new Republican legislation could deepen the gap between the Democratic Party and its progressive base, in addition to jeopardizing resources destined for immigrant communities, according to a report by Politico.

The most recent clash has taken place over the Laken Riley Act, a Republican-driven law named after a student murdered in Georgia. The bill expanded criminal offenses that require the detention of undocumented immigrants, something migrant rights advocates have warned could result in mass incarceration and deportation of people without due process. Despite the concerns, the legislation garnered significant support within the Democratic Party: 48 representatives and 12 senators from the party voted in favor of the measure, allowing it to be approved and signed by Donald Trump on January 29, becoming the first major immigration bill of his second term.

The next legislative battle centers on the "No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act," a Republican bill that aims to cut federal funding from jurisdictions that do not collaborate with immigration authorities. Many of these localities are run by Democrats, and activists are pushing for the party to stand united against the measure. However, there are fears that the number of Democrats who support such restrictions will increase, which would put additional pressure on the party's senators, who have traditionally been more resistant to strict immigration legislation.

The political calculus for Democrats in the so-called purple districts, where the electorate is divided, remains a challenge. Many lawmakers in these regions feel the need to support certain immigration restrictions to avoid being targeted by Republican attacks during the election campaign. Even so, the Democratic leadership of the House has sought to oppose the sanctuary cities bill, trying to avoid further defections within the party, according to the publication.

As Democrats adjust their strategy, immigrant advocacy groups are stepping up, holding meetings, sending letters to Congress, and holding events to raise awareness among officials about the impact of these legislations. There is also an effort to reframe the narrative around immigration, connecting the issue to the economic concerns that influenced the outcome of the election. Rather than just arguing against GOP policies based on civil rights, activists now emphasize how these measures can harm the economy and social stability, highlighting the contradictions in Republican discourse on economic growth and security.

Against this backdrop, the Democratic Party seeks to balance its alliances with progressive groups and political pressures in competitive districts. How Democrats handle those tensions in the coming months could define not only their relationship with Latino and immigrant voters but also the direction of their immigration policy in an increasingly polarized political environment.