Democrats Call for Bipartisan Immigration Reform as They Prepare to Take Power

Sitting and newly elected congressional Democrats gathered outside the U.S. Capitol on November 11, 2026, to press for quick action to rein in the Trump administration's immigration enforcement operation. They advocated a bipartisan approach to immigration reform, meaning one that draws support from both Republicans and Democrats.

The press conference included progressive and moderate Democrats from both the Senate and the House, according to The Guardian. Many attendees held signs reading "legal pathways for long-term immigrants." Democrats are preparing to take control of both chambers of Congress next year.

Rep. Veronica Escobar, a Democrat from Texas whose district includes El Paso, said any comprehensive immigration reform must be bipartisan. She pointed to the fact that Democrats do not hold a Senate supermajority, the large margin needed to pass most legislation without Republican votes, while Donald Trump is in the White House.

Rep. Maria Salazar, a Florida Republican, was the one Republican lawmaker slated to attend the event. She did not appear.

Sen. Ruben Gallego, an Arizona Democrat, said there is still time in the current congressional session to reach an immigration deal.

Trump said after his party's losses in the 2026 midterm elections that his immigration enforcement had been "too tough" in certain aspects.