1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

I am writing as your constituent to express grave concerns about recent federal law enforcement actions and their impact on our democratic institutions. I am deeply troubled by reports of incidents during Department of Homeland Security operations, particularly the mistreatment of Senator Alex Padilla during a Los Angeles press conference. The physical restraint and arrest of a sitting Senator while performing constitutional duties represents an unprecedented breach of democratic norms and separation of powers. Similar reports involving Representative McIver suggest a dangerous escalation in federal-state tensions and raise serious questions about appropriate limits of federal enforcement actions. The rhetoric accompanying these operations is equally concerning. Characterizing federal immigration enforcement as efforts to "liberate" cities from duly elected leadership suggests troubling politicization of routine law enforcement. This undermines the democratic principle that local and state officials derive authority from voters, not federal approval. I am particularly concerned about the apparent targeting of elected officials from the opposing political party, inflammatory rhetoric regarding democratically elected leadership, expansion of operations to multiple cities suggesting coordinated rather than routine enforcement, and the chilling effect on elected officials' ability to represent constituents and provide federal oversight. I urge you to investigate these incidents thoroughly and demand accountability for constitutional violations, ensure federal operations respect federal-state boundaries, protect all elected officials' rights to perform duties without interference, and consider appropriate oversight measures including hearings and investigations. Our democratic system depends on elected officials' ability to perform duties without fear of retaliation or intimidation. Separation of powers and federalism are fundamental principles that must be preserved regardless of political differences. I respectfully request your prompt attention and would appreciate a response outlining steps you plan to take to address these concerns. Thank you for your time and consideration.