California Governor Gavin Newsom is lashing out at President Donald Trump following the arrest and removal of Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA) during a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) press conference in Los Angeles. The incident occurred Thursday when Padilla interrupted DHS Secretary Kristi Noem by shouting mid-conference, prompting federal agents to forcibly escort and handcuff him after he refused to comply.
Padilla, who was protesting the administration’s enforcement actions in Southern California, was taken down by agents after causing a significant disruption. The scene quickly drew outrage from top Democrats, who painted the incident as an authoritarian overreach under Trump’s leadership.
Newsom posted a fiery statement on X, calling the response “outrageous, dictatorial, and shameful.” He accused Trump of unleashing “shock troops” against political opponents and claimed the administration was spiraling out of control.
Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) echoed the sentiment, calling for a formal investigation into the agents’ conduct. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) demanded immediate answers, and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called the situation “abhorrent.” Kamala Harris, also weighing in, labeled the event a “shameful and stunning abuse of power.”
Harris argued Padilla was merely representing Californians seeking accountability from the Trump administration regarding border enforcement and immigration policy. She claimed the arrest sends a dangerous message about dissent under Trump’s leadership.
The DHS has not issued an official statement regarding the agents’ actions, but sources confirm that protocol was followed due to Padilla’s refusal to leave the restricted area after multiple warnings. Secretary Noem continued with the press conference following the incident.
The episode highlights the increasing tension between state-level Democrat officials and the Trump administration, particularly on immigration and law enforcement. It also underscores the sharp partisan divide as Democrats attempt to frame routine security enforcement as political persecution.
