CBP Officials Respond to Gov. Newsom’s Claims

California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent accusations that federal agents coordinated immigration raids to coincide with his rally in Los Angeles have been refuted by customs and border security officials. Chief Patrol Agent Gregory Bovino of the El Centro sector labeled Newsom’s comments as a political “tantrum.”

Bovino questioned the governor’s reaction during a segment on “American Newsroom,” asking where the anger is regarding crime in Los Angeles. He pointed out that there are serious criminal threats present, implying that the focus should be on real dangers rather than political theatrics.

Following an immigration enforcement operation in the city on Thursday, Newsom had held a press conference where he presented plans to redraw the council map. During this event, he criticized the Trump administration’s deportation strategy, asserting that numerous agents were positioned nearby. He posed the question, “Do you think it’s a coincidence?”

Newsom didn’t hold back, pointing fingers at Trump and his associates, suggesting their actions were not random. Other officials, including Bovino and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, contended that the immigration action was unrelated to Newsom’s official agenda.

Bovino clarified that the operation aimed to target individuals in the area, noting that they had arrested a member of Tren de Aragua, a violent gang from Venezuela. He emphasized that such operations are routine, with many law enforcement teams active in Los Angeles.

He stated, “We have hundreds of law enforcement officers who do that mission every day in Los Angeles.” He mentioned that the timing and locations of these operations are based on intelligence rather than political appearances.

In response to the criticism, Newsom’s office issued a strong statement, asserting they are not intimidated by Trump.