Representative Tony Gonzalez, a Republican from Texas, urged for a reduction in tensions in downtown Los Angeles following the arrival of federal forces to manage protests.
In an interview with NewsNation’s “The Hill,” Gonzalez noted that the significant presence of federal forces in LA sends a crucial message against the city’s rising disorder, but he believes it should not lead to further escalations in the future.
He pointed out that the “engagement rules” for the 700 U.S. Marines recently deployed to the area indicate they are there merely as a “support mechanism” for local law enforcement and federal agents.
“This will not be tolerated,” he insisted, emphasizing the need for the Marines to be effective in their roles.
“However, we should escalate efforts right after that initial support. It’s about calming things down afterward,” Gonzalez added.
He mentioned that lawmakers and public figures play a significant role in facilitating peace and resolution.
“In the political arena, we need to step back and say, ‘Hold on. You can protest, but let’s do so peacefully. Let’s de-escalate and take a breath,'” he remarked.
Gonzalez, who represents a large stretch of the U.S.-Mexico border, stressed the importance of focusing on deporting convicted criminals, both for practical reasons and public messaging.
“What everyone is protesting, whether you agree or not, is what we need. It’s fine to express concerns, but burning down the city? That’s unacceptable,” he stated.
“We need to zero in on illegal immigrants who are convicted criminals. We have over 600,000 in the country,” he added.
When asked about worries that some individuals caught up in immigration enforcement may not be violent offenders, he highlighted the importance of specifics, vowing to seek clarity on those involved in the so-called ICE operations.
“I’ve talked to DHS officials and inquired more about this—are these people actually arrested criminals? Or are they merely individuals who have overstayed their visas?”
“I want to know the specifics,” he continued. “But again, it’s a matter of sensitive cases. If the focus is on convicted criminals, there should be widespread support for that.”
