In a city already tense with protests, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass accuses President Trump’s ICE operations of being politically motivated, igniting further controversy.
At a Glance
- The Trump administration investigates potential financial backers of anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles.
- DHS suggests foreign adversary involvement in protests.
- Investigations involve the FBI and IRS.
- Mayor Bass condemns ICE raids as political retribution against Los Angeles.
Rising Tensions in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has criticized the Trump administration’s ICE operations, calling them politically motivated and aimed at instilling fear among immigrants. The city has witnessed protests, some of which have escalated into violence, with instances of vehicles set ablaze and confrontations with law enforcement. These events have put the spotlight on the administration’s immigration policies.
The Trump administration is currently investigating who might be financially supporting the protests, with assistance from the FBI and IRS. This inquiry has intensified the already charged atmosphere in the city. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin hinted at possible foreign adversary involvement, further complicating the situation.
Federal Response and Local Criticism
President Trump initially accused local leaders, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Bass, of paying protesters, although he later retracted these claims. He subsequently suggested that the protesters might be paid by someone else, or that they are simply troublemakers. Governor Newsom criticized the administration’s tactics as federal overreach, warning of potential ramifications across the nation.
“This is about all of us. This is about you. California may be first, but it clearly will not end here. Other states are next. Democracy is next. Democracy is under assault before our eyes. This moment we have feared has arrived,” Newsom said.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has deployed National Guard troops and Marines to safeguard federal immigration officials, a move that has been controversially received. Protesters have responded with increasing momentum, planning widespread demonstrations in major cities against what they see as aggressive federal actions.
Local Leaders Rally Against Federal Actions
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has been vocal in her opposition, describing the ICE raids as “political retribution” against the Democratic-leaning city. She raised concerns about the raids’ impact on local communities, where residents live under the constant threat of sudden immigration crackdowns, affecting their daily lives.
“Angelenos are trying to live their lives—going to work, caring for their families—while facing the constant threat of sudden immigration crackdowns,” Bass said in a post on the social platform X.
The situation has drawn national attention, with protests against the administration’s immigration policies spreading beyond Los Angeles. The “No Kings” movement plans to hold 1,500 demonstrations nationwide, signaling wider unrest and resistance to the current federal immigration strategies.
