Border Patrol Confrontation Rocks Newsom’s L.A. Press Conference, Sparks Outcry
Border Patrol Confrontation Rocks Newsom’s L.A. Press Conference, Sparks Outcry
In a dramatic confrontation that has ignited a firestorm of criticism, U.S. Border Patrol agents, led by Sector Chief Gregory Bovino, staged a highly visible show of force outside a press conference held by California Governor Gavin Newsom in downtown Los Angeles. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, saw scores of federal agents, clad in tactical gear and armed, massing outside the Japanese American National Museum where Newsom was set to address redistricting plans.
Chief Bovino, who oversees immigration operations in California, asserted their presence was to make Los Angeles safer, stating, “We’re glad to be here, we’re not going anywhere.” Despite being informed of Newsom’s proximity, Bovino claimed ignorance of the Governor’s whereabouts. Newsom’s office quickly responded on social media, declaring, “BORDER PATROL HAS SHOWED UP AT OUR BIG BEAUTIFUL PRESS CONFERENCE! WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED!”
The provocative display, during which one individual was detained, unfolded amidst escalating tensions over renewed immigration operations across the L.A. area. Federal agents have conducted numerous raids in recent weeks, targeting individuals at various public locations. This comes despite a federal judge’s July order, affirmed by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on August 1, which restricted immigration officials from racial profiling or using roving patrols.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass strongly condemned the incident, calling it “unbelievably disrespectful” and a “provocative act” designed to undermine the Governor. She dismissed claims of coincidence, asserting, “They are the source of the disorder in Los Angeles right now.” A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, Tricia McLaughlin, defended the agents’ actions, stating operations are about enforcing the law, not targeting Newsom.
The individual arrested, identified as Angel, was reportedly a delivery driver. His coworker, Carlos Franco, expressed dismay, noting Angel was simply delivering strawberries. The incident has drawn comparisons to historical injustices, with William T. Fujioka, chair of the Japanese American National Museum’s Board of Trustees, likening the agents’ appearance to events of 1942 when Japanese Americans were forcibly interned. The Trump administration recently petitioned the Supreme Court to lift the ban on “roving patrols,” a move strongly opposed by state and city leaders who argue such tactics violate constitutional rights.
Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.