Anger Over Federal Immigration Action During News Conference
Democrats voiced their frustration when California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the Trump administration for a federal immigration operation taking place near a press conference on Thursday.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed strong opinions, alleging that President Trump ordered this operation to intimidate California officials regarding their policies. Newsom had been seeking support from a Democrat-led nation, countering a similar initiative from Texas Republicans.
“This is incredibly rude and a provocative act!” Bass stated, noting the irony of federal officials causing disruptions while others discussed obstacles in the city.
During a rant in front of reporters, Bass accused federal agents of staging stunts concurrent with Newsom’s event. “This has nothing to do with safety! It actually goes against keeping our city secure! They have no reason to be here right now!” she declared.
She further suggested that it was inappropriate for immigration operations to occur near a prominent museum in Los Angeles. “This wasn’t a coincidence. The governor and several other elected officials were here having a press conference about rezoning.” Bass questioned their motives, reiterating, “It’s incredibly rude and totally unacceptable!”
When reporters mentioned that a federal commander claimed the operation was routine, Bass firmly dismissed that idea. “This is what creates chaos in our city,” she responded.
Bass also accused the Trump administration of violating recent court orders from the Ninth Circuit that limited “roving patrol” operations targeting people based on their appearance, employment, or language.
“We will do everything we can to keep Angelenos safe,” she asserted. “But how can I meet these accusations when the federal government is the one violating the law? Here we are, Angelenos needing to protect ourselves from our own government.”
A U.S. attorney responded to Bass’s comments, highlighting that California officials seem to mistakenly believe they are immune from federal law. “No individual or state can supersede federal law. Federal agents can operate anywhere in the country at any time,” he explained.
