California Democrats are facing backlash from conservatives following a controversial social media post urging federal agents to arrest illegal immigrants in Los Angeles. Representative Norma Torres, in a TikTok video, mentioned that “ICE will enable order to be restored from f — LA,” as protests erupted in response to recent violent events. This statement quickly drew criticism online, with some accusing Torres—who immigrated from Guatemala and later became a U.S. citizen—of inciting violence against ICE officers.
Some conservative commentators responded vehemently. For example, a conservative TikTok account called Torres a “madman,” while others echoed sentiments about her allegedly radical stance. Enhanced scrutiny arose when figures including Arizona Senator Wendy Rogers suggested that Torres should face expulsion from Congress.
Moreover, as protests escalated, ICE officers were subjected to violence, including projectiles being thrown at them, alongside vandalism with graffiti that called for aggression against them. U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks highlighted the danger by sharing a photo of a bloodied agent, indicating that federal agents’ lives were at risk during these demonstrations.
In an effort to restore peace amid the chaos, President Trump stated he would deploy 2,000 National Guard soldiers to Los Angeles, reminiscent of the unrest seen during the immigration protests in 2020. Reports of various arrests have already surfaced in connection with assaults on federal agents during the disturbances.
