Memorial Ceremony in the White House East Room
President Trump presided over a memorial ceremony for Laken Riley's family and victims killed in cases involving illegal immigrants in the East Room of the White House at 10 AM on Monday.
The event took place on February 22 — exactly two years since the murder of University of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley. According to records, Riley was murdered on February 22, 2024, by José Antonio Ibarra, a Venezuelan citizen who entered the U.S. illegally in September 2022. Ibarra had an outstanding warrant related to a theft at the time.
February 22 Designated as Angel Family Day
President Trump signed a proclamation designating February 22 as "Angel Family Day," honoring 62 people killed and two survivors in attacks perpetrated by illegal immigrants.
Laken Riley Act Mandates Detention
Previously, in January 2025, President Trump signed the Laken Riley Act into law, which mandates the detention of illegal immigrants charged with certain crimes.
A White House official described the ceremony as a solemn ritual, emphasizing the administration's continued stance on deporting the most dangerous individuals.
Immigration to be Central to State of the Union Address
The topic of immigration is expected to be a central focus of Tuesday evening's State of the Union Address.
Also on Sunday, President Trump invited the U.S. Olympic men's hockey team, who won a gold medal, as honored guests to the State of the Union after their 2-1 victory over Canada.
Political developments and reactions from all sides continue to be updated.
