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Maxine Waters Faces Backlash from Homeland Security Over Riots and Confrontation with Guardsmen
A senior official from the Department of Homeland Security criticized Congresswoman Maxine Waters for spreading inaccurate claims regarding the riots in Los Angeles. The allegations include her alleged attempts to force her way into a detention center to meet a detained union leader. Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for DHS, expressed these concerns in an interview with Fox News Digital.
According to McLaughlin, access to the Los Angeles detention facility was temporarily limited to protect both detainees and personnel. This decision was made in light of Waters’ actions over the weekend when she approached a group of guardsmen. She walked briskly toward a plywood-protected entrance where guards were stationed.
The 86-year-old lawmaker, known for her 18 terms in Congress, greeted the armed personnel with enthusiasm, saying, “Hello, hello, hello — I’m Congresswoman Waters.” However, her interactions were met with resistance when one guardsman instructed her to consult the public affairs office and then closed the door in her face.
McLaughlin added, “As a result, Congresswoman Maxine Waters was denied entry to the facility.” She emphasized the importance of security for DHS staff, ICE agents, and individuals in custody during this tense time.
Waters Accused of Inciting Tensions
In addition to confronting the guardsmen, Waters also made headlines by taunting them. During an earlier encounter, she questioned whether they intended to shoot her. McLaughlin suggested that Waters should redirect her efforts toward de-escalating violent situations rather than provoking national guard members.
She stated, “Instead of taunting national guard members, the congresswoman should focus on calming these tumultuous riots.” The implications of such rhetoric can have dangerous consequences during periods of unrest.
DHS’s criticism of Waters comes at a time when President Donald Trump had federalized the California National Guard. Waters responded by accusing Trump of failing to keep California Governor Gavin Newsom adequately informed in an earlier media clip.
DHS Challenges Waters’ Claims
Furthermore, McLaughlin addressed Waters’ recent television appearance where she insisted that the riots had not been violent. “This morning on CNN, the congresswoman made false claims that these riots have not resulted in violence,” she remarked.
She continued, “The American people can see for themselves the reality. Rioters have assaulted law enforcement, thrown rocks, burned flags, set vehicles ablaze, and vandalized buildings and government property.” McLaughlin condemned the targeting of law enforcement in Los Angeles as despicable and urged Waters to call for its end.
Waters’ Concerns about Armed Guardsmen
During an interview with CNN’s Wolf Blitzer, Waters discussed the detention of David Huerta, a leader of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Huerta was detained during one of the immigration enforcement raids that incited local protests. Waters recounted her attempt to check on Huerta’s status, revealing her frustration after being denied entry despite wearing her congressional emblem.
She described the protests in the area as “very small and very peaceful,” downplaying any potential animosity. However, she did express concern over the armed presence of guardsmen, attributing the escalating tensions to Trump. In her own words, she stated, “Trump has instigated all of this.”
Waters’ Strong Words for Trump
Waters further criticized Trump, labeling him a “cruel human being” for allegedly using marginalized communities to advance his political agenda. She expressed disdain for the militaristic celebrations planned to correspond with Trump’s birthday and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.
In official comments following the confrontation, Waters justified her visit to the Metropolitan Detention Center as part of her efforts to check on Huerta. The SEIU had described the ICE operation as a violent sweep of the community.
Furthermore, Waters referred to a separate viral video that captured her urging armed agents not to use violence against peaceful demonstrators. She asserted, “I pled with the National Guard, which was heavily armed, not to use their weapons against those simply exercising their rights.”
Voicing Concerns for Human Rights
In her statement, Waters emphasized the need for dignity and due process for all individuals under the law. She asserted that peaceful protests are vital in upholding constitutional rights. Her critique extended to the President, whom she accused of being dishonorable and suggesting that his administration would prefer aggression towards demonstrators.
During her standoff with the National Guardsmen, Waters made headlines by shouting, “You’re gonna shoot an elected official? If you shoot me, you better shoot straight.” This statement underscores the heightened emotions surrounding both the protests and her efforts to support detained individuals.
While Fox News Digital reached out to Waters’ office for further comment, there was no immediate response. The ongoing tension surrounding these events illustrates the current climate of dissent and the challenges facing public figures in responding to civil unrest.
Reflecting on the Future
The unfolding drama of this incident highlights the challenges of communication between elected officials and enforcement agencies in times of crisis. Waters’ confrontational approach raises questions about the effectiveness of using public platforms to air grievances amidst the turbulence of riots. The federal response as well as public reaction to Waters’ actions will be critical in determining the impact of this incident on her political future and that of her party.
Given the high stakes in political rhetoric and public safety, it becomes essential for leaders to navigate these tensions with care, prioritizing constructive dialogue to foster peace rather than division. As communities continue to grapple with questions of justice and safety, the choices of public figures will remain in the spotlight.
