Republican lawmakers, both in Georgia and beyond, are recognizing Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff. He’s currently running for re-election and recently criticized Republican candidates for not supporting an investigation into the shooting death of Alex Preti by federal immigration agents.
Ossoff posed a question on social media, asking, “Will any Republican Senate candidate in Georgia join other Republican leaders in calling for a full, transparent, and independent investigation into the murder of Alex Preti in Minnesota?” He specifically mentioned Rep. Buddy Carter, Rep. Mike Collins, and former college football coach Derek Dooley, all of whom are vying for Ossoff’s Senate seat in November.
In response, Carter, Collins, and other Republicans expressed their admiration for Ossoff’s posts, claiming he seems more focused on Preti’s case than on illegal immigration issues impacting their constituents—like the 2024 murder of college student Laken Riley, allegedly committed by undocumented immigrants.
Coincidentally, Thursday marks a year since President Trump signed the Laken-Riley Act, which was the first piece of legislation in his second term. This act tightened restrictions on detention and deportation for illegal immigrants involved in certain crimes, such as shoplifting and DUI. Notably, Riley’s murderer had a prior theft conviction.
Senator Ossoff’s tweets about the incident drew some criticism. For example, Collins remarked, “We need to fully fund DHS so ICE can continue to deport violent criminal aliens,” urging Ossoff to speak out against illegal immigrants recently charged with serious crimes.
Fox News radio host Guy Benson also pointed out Ossoff’s lack of commentary on Riley’s case, juxtaposing it against a recent violent incident involving an illegal immigrant in Georgia. Carter reiterated the disappointment over Ossoff’s perceived inaction, questioning his priorities and claiming that he seems more interested in Minnesota than in protecting Georgians.
Even though Ossoff hosted a memorial event for Riley shortly after her death, critics noted that he hadn’t publicly mentioned her name on social media platforms. An analysis found no posts referencing Laken Riley in his account.
Senator Cruz added to the backlash by pointing out Ossoff’s silence on Riley, sharing a retweeted post that highlighted this discrepancy. However, Ossoff did honor her life in a speech to state lawmakers, expressing shock and calling for a moment of silence.
On the anniversary of the Laken Riley Act, Sen. Tim Scott accused Ossoff of undermining the legislation. Initially, Ossoff voted against amendments to the act but later supported the standalone version in early 2025, which Scott believes was a politically motivated decision.
Scott has voiced skepticism about Ossoff’s commitment to constituents, suggesting he prioritizes his political ambitions over the needs of Georgians, and he emphasized the urgency for a senator who truly fights for their interests.
As of now, Ossoff’s office has not provided comments regarding these recent critiques.
