Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed from a Homeland Security press conference in Los Angeles while attempting to ask Secretary Kristi Noem a question. His office reported that he was handcuffed and taken to the ground by federal agents. Noem later accused Padilla of engaging in "disrespectful political theatre," stating he did not comply with requests to back up. Despite the removal, Noem and Padilla reportedly spoke briefly afterward. The incident sparked significant backlash, particularly from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who called out the treatment of Padilla.
Padilla’s office stated he was "forcibly removed by federal agents, forced to the ground and handcuffed," emphasizing his identity was clear during the incident.
Gov. Newsom shared a video capturing the incident, emphasizing the alarming nature of the senator's treatment during a governmental event.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed grave concern about the incident, saying it was "sickening" to witness the manhandling of a U.S. senator.
Noem defended the law enforcement action, stating people needed to identify themselves before "lunging at people, during press conferences."
#senator-alex-padilla #homeland-security #press-conference-incident #federal-agents #political-dispute
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