Things got intense in Los Angeles when California Senator Alex Padilla found himself face-first on the ground in handcuffs—all for trying to ask a question.
Padilla attended a DHS press conference where Secretary Kristi Noem was speaking about the immigration protests sweeping the state. According to witnesses and footage, Padilla stood up, introduced himself, and attempted to pose a question. Instead of getting an answer, several plainclothes men and agents rushed in, dragged him out, and cuffed him in the hallway.
His team says Padilla was there for official oversight and had a scheduled meeting with military leadership. What was supposed to be a routine briefing turned into a political flashpoint.
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The dramatic video of the takedown has gone viral, and Washington is on fire over it. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said he was “sickened,” and California Governor Gavin Newsom didn’t hold back, calling it “outrageous” and accusing the federal government of going full authoritarian.
Padilla’s not alone—this comes after several Democratic officials have been arrested or charged while challenging federal immigration tactics. Tensions are high with Trump’s new enforcement push, which includes National Guard and Marines deployed to LA.
Meanwhile, Secretary Noem claims she offered to speak to Padilla afterward, and the two did have a 15-minute chat post-incident. But that hasn’t stopped the backlash. Democrats want a full investigation, with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus calling it a clear abuse of power.
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