Sen. Blakespear Condemns Immigration Raids, Use of Military to Police LA Streets

SACRAMENTO – Sen. Catherine Blakespear, D-Encinitas, issued the following statement in response to recent raids conducted in Southern California by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the deployment of the U.S. Marines and National Guard to Los Angeles:

“The recent raids conducted by ICE across California have been recklessly heavy-handed, cruel and terrorizing. It’s heartbreaking to see workers hauled out of restaurant kitchens, children left alone screaming for their parents, and families torn apart. The way in which these raids are being conducted is clearly designed to frighten and intimidate Californians and destabilize communities. 

I denounce the unnecessary deployment of the National Guard, without consent of the Governor, and U.S. Marines, which is an uncalled for overreaction that only serves to stoke fear and unrest. The President has done this unlawfully and intentionally in a clear effort to create division and provoke panic. The situation in Los Angeles does not meet the criteria for federalization. Local and state law enforcement are well able to subdue any unlawful activity. There is no invasion by a foreign country, rebellion against the authority of the government or an inability to execute federal laws. 

I support non-violent, peaceful demonstrations. It is the right of all Americans to be protected in peaceful protest. It is also the right of the people to observe government. The presence of the military on city streets has only inflamed protests and the threat of violence. The President should immediately end the creation of an unnecessary police state.” 

Elected in 2022, Sen. Blakespear represents Senate District 38, which covers northern San Diego County and part of southern Orange County. To learn more about the district and Sen. Blakespear, visit her Senate website.