Condemn forcible removal of Senator Padilla, defend democratic norms

It is unacceptable for a United States Senator to be forcibly removed and mistreated for simply attempting to ask questions at a public press conference. This blatant abuse of power by the Trump administration is a disturbing violation of democratic principles and norms. The incident involving Senator Padilla is the latest in a series of heavy-handed actions by the Department of Homeland Security against elected officials engaged in legitimate oversight and inquiry. This pattern of intimidation and obstructionism from the executive branch represents a severe threat to the system of checks and balances that is foundational to our constitutional republic. Congress has a solemn responsibility to uphold its role as a co-equal branch of government and pushback against these authoritarian overreaches. Vigorous oversight, investigation, and accountability measures must be pursued to ensure no individual or institution is above the law. Inaction in the face of such alarming conduct will only enable further erosion of our democratic institutions and processes. The American people deserve full transparency about this appalling incident and assurances that steps will be taken to prevent any reoccurrence of federal agents using force against members of Congress simply for asking questions. Upholding the Constitution requires acting decisively to rein in this rogue administration's abuses before they undermine our nation's values and principles beyond repair. I urge you to show true patriotism by taking immediate action through all available Constitutional means.