Why Was a US Senator from California Removed from a DHS Press Conference?
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Synopsis
In a shocking incident, US Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly ejected from a DHS press conference in Los Angeles after attempting to question Secretary Kristi Noem. This incident raises concerns about political discourse and the treatment of elected officials. Explore the unfolding drama that highlights the tension between state and federal authorities.
Key Takeaways
- Senator Padilla was forcibly removed from a DHS press conference.
- The incident raises questions about political discourse and treatment of elected officials.
- Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the actions of federal agents.
- The event underscores the tension between state and federal authorities.
- Protests over federal immigration enforcement have led to numerous arrests.
Los Angeles, June 13 (NationPress) The office of Alex Padilla, a US Senator from California, has confirmed that the Democrat was forcibly removed from a press conference of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in Los Angeles after he attempted to question US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
Padilla was present at the federal building in Los Angeles for a briefing with General Gregory Michael Guillot, the commander of United States Northern Command, and was listening to Noem's press conference, according to a statement from the Senator's office.
“He tried to ask the Secretary a question, and was forcibly removed by federal agents, forced to the ground and handcuffed. He is not currently detained, and we are working to gather more information,” the statement elaborated.
“Senator Padilla is currently in Los Angeles performing his duty to oversee the federal government's operations in Los Angeles and throughout California,” noted Padilla's office.
Padilla, who is the first Latino to represent California in the US Senate, was restrained and handcuffed by members of the US Secret Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation after interrupting Noem's press conference, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.
Padilla remarked that if this is how the Trump administration treats a “senator with a question, I can only imagine what they are doing to cooks and day laborers,” according to the report.
The Department of Homeland Security, however, stated in a post on X that “Padilla chose disrespectful political theatre and interrupted a live press conference without identifying himself or displaying his Senate security pin as he approached Secretary Noem.”
Padilla was repeatedly instructed to step back but did not comply with officers' commands. The Secret Service perceived him as a potential threat, and the officers acted accordingly, as per the Department of Homeland Security.
“Secretary Noem met with Senator Padilla afterward and held a 15-minute meeting,” the department added.
California Governor Gavin Newsom shared a photo of the Senator being handcuffed by federal agents on X, stating, “If they can handcuff a US Senator for asking a question, imagine what they will do to you.”
“This is outrageous, dictatorial, and shameful. Trump and his shock troops are out of control,” the Democratic governor emphasized.
Since protests regarding federal immigration enforcement began on Friday, hundreds have been arrested.
President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of over 4,000 National Guard members and approximately 700 active-duty Marines to the Los Angeles area, despite opposition from Newsom and other local officials.
Point of View
Where interruptions and confrontations at press events can escalate quickly. As a national editor, it is crucial to maintain an unbiased perspective while acknowledging the importance of Congressional oversight and the rights of elected officials. This event underscores the need for respectful dialogue in our democratic processes.
NationPress
13/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Senator Padilla's removal from the press conference?
Senator Padilla attempted to ask a question during the press conference held by Secretary Noem, which led to his forcible removal by federal agents.
What was the response from the Department of Homeland Security?
The DHS stated that Padilla interrupted the press conference without identifying himself or displaying his Senate security pin, which led to security concerns.
How did California Governor Gavin Newsom react?
Governor Newsom condemned the actions of federal agents, emphasizing the implications of handcuffing a US Senator for merely asking a question.
