Padilla Blames Trump for Migrant Death in ICE Raid

Senator Alex Padilla blamed the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement tactics for creating widespread fear and contributing to migrant deaths. During a Sunday appearance on CNN’s State of the Union, Padilla reacted to news that a migrant farm worker died after falling from a roof in Ventura County, California, during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid.

Padilla said he had not yet spoken to the deceased worker’s family but was in contact with the president of the United Farm Workers Union, who has been present with the family. He described immigrant communities as being “terrorized and traumatized” by current ICE operations in the state.

The senator claimed ICE actions are driven by “artificial quotas” from the Trump administration, referencing former White House advisor Stephen Miller as a key figure behind the policies. Padilla stated that the goal of targeting violent criminals has been distorted into broader, more aggressive enforcement efforts, which he said are now affecting lawful immigrants, U.S. citizens, and military veterans.

California has experienced intensified federal immigration enforcement in recent weeks, prompting clashes between state and federal authorities. These actions have also drawn criticism from state officials who argue that the tactics are politically motivated and violate civil liberties.

Padilla’s comments add fuel to a growing debate over immigration enforcement practices and their human cost. The incident in Ventura County, which reportedly involved ICE agents pursuing suspects at a residential site, has sparked protests and calls for federal restraint.

Supporters of stronger border enforcement argue that ICE must uphold immigration laws regardless of political pressure. Padilla and other Democrats counter that fear-based tactics erode trust in communities and risk tragic outcomes.

MORE STORIES