1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

What occurred today in Los Angeles during Kristi Noem’s DHS press conference was outrageous—and it happened under the authority of the Trump administration. Senator Padilla, a duly elected representative, introduced himself, declared his intent to ask a question pertaining to congressional oversight—his constitutional duty—and was then forcibly shoved to the ground, handcuffed, and dragged away by DHS agents. This is undemocratic behavior. If a sitting U.S. Senator can be treated like a criminal for asking questions, what message does that send to everyday Californians? What’s next—federal agents silencing civic petitioners or parents at school board meetings? Your words calling this “dictatorial” were right. But the public—Californians—need to know you’ll act beyond statements. You must demand: 1. A full, independent investigation into the incident. 2. A public statement of condemnation from you, directed not just at DHS but also at the Trump administration. Especially Kristi Noem! 3. Commitment to ensuring California’s elected officials—and our people—aren’t intimidated or silenced by federal force. This is a fundamental threat to constitutional accountability and civil liberties. We need more than outrage. We demand action and leadership.