Officials from Homeland Security have criticized Rep. Maxine Waters for what they called a “lie” regarding recent riots and her attempts to enter a detention center to meet with union leaders who were being held.
According to DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin, access to the facility in Los Angeles was “temporarily restricted” to protect both detainees and officers on duty. Waters, who is 86 years old and represents California’s 18th district, reportedly approached a security guard and announced herself but was instructed to adhere to “official duties.” This exchange ultimately led to Waters being denied entry.
“The safety and security of our personnel and those in our custody is our top priority,” McLaughlin stated, addressing the incident.
When Waters confronted armed guards on the streets, questioning whether they intended to shoot her, it prompted McLaughlin to suggest that lawmakers should focus on de-escalating the situation rather than adding to the tension. “Instead of provoking National Guard members, they should be working to ease the violent protests,” she emphasized.
Waters has been vocal about her frustrations, hinting that former President Trump did not adequately inform California Governor Gavin Newsom about deploying the National Guard. DHS has also criticized Waters’ public comments, contending that she falsely claimed the riots were non-violent during an appearance on CNN.
Waters reacted to the violence witnessed during the riots, claiming that attacks on law enforcement and vandalism were evident. She stated, “The mob threw rocks, set fires, and caused damage to public property.” She believes Congress should address these matters more seriously.
During an interview with Wolf Blitzer, Waters expressed confusion over her denied access, noting she wore official insignia on her jacket. Moreover, she characterized the situation in the area as “very peaceful” despite the chaos surrounding her.
Waters accused Trump of inciting the unrest, labeling him as cruel for manipulating vulnerable communities for political gain. She referred to an upcoming military parade coinciding with the U.S. military’s birthday as another display of his disregard for civilian safety.
In her account, she visited the Metropolitan Detention Center to investigate what she described as a “violent sweep” involving arrests related to ICE operations. Waters also alluded to another viral clip she had produced regarding the unrest.
In her statement, she urged the National Guard to refrain from using weapons against peaceful protesters, asserting that all individuals are entitled to fair treatment and protection of their constitutional rights.
She made a poignant statement directed at the security personnel, asking, “Are you going to shoot an elected official? If you shoot me, you better shoot straight.” Waters reportedly voiced her concerns about the armed guards during her confrontation, emphasizing the need for a more measured response to the protests.
Fox News Digital attempted to reach Waters’ office for further comment but was unable to get through immediately.
