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Democratic Senator Alex Padilla of California was allegedly forced to the ground and handcuffed by security personnel during a press conference on Thursday, where Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was addressing recent demonstrations in Los Angeles related to immigration enforcement.
According to Padilla, he identified himself as a U.S. senator and attempted to pose a question when security intervened. “I am Senator Alex Padilla. I have questions for the secretary,” he reportedly said before being removed from the room. Eyewitness accounts and a video shared online appear to show three individuals restraining Padilla, though the video’s authenticity has not been officially confirmed.
In a statement, Padilla claimed he was physically restrained and handcuffed while attempting to engage in discussion. Noem, speaking at the time, was addressing growing unrest in Los Angeles in response to federal immigration policies. The federal government has recently increased its presence in the city, including deploying National Guard troops and military personnel to safeguard federal properties and support immigration enforcement.
Reactions from lawmakers have been swift. Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski commented that the handling of Padilla appeared inappropriate, saying, “To see how he was treated was wrong and sickening.” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also voiced concern, calling the situation “deeply disturbing” and demanding clarity on what occurred.
Top Republican Senator John Thune took a more cautious approach, saying he would wait for more information before drawing conclusions.
This incident follows other controversial interactions between federal authorities and Democratic officials. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was previously arrested on trespassing allegations at a privately operated immigration facility. While those charges were later dismissed, Democratic Representative LaMonica McIver now faces accusations of assaulting officers during Baraka’s arrest — allegations both deny.
Investigations into the latest incident involving Senator Padilla may provide further clarity in the coming days.
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