LA Mayor Faces Backlash for Response to ICE Raids Amid Controversial Federal Enforcement Actions

LA Mayor Faces Backlash for Response to ICE Raids

On Friday, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass encountered significant criticism on social media, particularly from members of the Trump administration. This reaction followed her firm opposition to Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids targeting undocumented immigrants in the city.

In a statement released earlier in the day, Bass remarked, “This morning, we received reports of federal immigration enforcement actions in multiple locations in Los Angeles.” The mayor’s response highlighted her commitment to Los Angeles as a welcoming city for immigrants.

“As Mayor of a proud city of immigrants, who contribute to our city in so many ways, I am deeply angered by what has taken place. These tactics sow terror in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city. My Office is in close coordination with immigrant rights community organizations. We will not stand for this,” Bass asserted, emphasizing her dedication to protecting vulnerable residents.

Public and Political Reactions

The mayor’s statement quickly garnered over two million impressions on X, a platform formerly known as Twitter, igniting immediate backlash from conservative circles. Critics pointed out Bass’s handling of local crises, including damaging wildfires that ravaged parts of Los Angeles earlier this year.

White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller responded to the controversy by stating, “You have no say in this at all. Federal law is supreme and federal law will be enforced.” His comment reflects a broader review of federal authority concerning immigration enforcement.

Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon weighed in, noting that a number of officials fail to comprehend fundamental principles of federalism and sovereignty regarding immigration issues. “It’s amazing the number of elected officials who don’t grasp the basics of federalism, or federal sovereignty over immigration issues, or the First Amendment,” she posted.

Deputy Assistant to the President Sebastian Gorka took a more aggressive stance, tweeting, “They’re Illegals, not ‘immigrants.’ If you’re aiding and abetting them you’re a criminal too. Are you ready to be treated as a criminal? Because we are ready to treat you as one if you commit a crime.” This inflammatory comment has raised alarms about the current discourse surrounding immigration enforcement.

Social Media Backlash Intensifies

The uproar continued with critiques from various conservative figures. Red State writer Bonchie highlighted inconsistencies in Bass’s priorities, stating, “Can’t get permits for people to rebuild their homes after a wildfire, but focused like a laser beam on stopping immigration enforcement.” This statement illustrates how political rhetoric can intersect with real local challenges.

Further compounding the backlash, conservative communicator Steve Guest branded Bass a