Tensions surrounding the Donald Trump administration’s controversial immigration crackdown erupted on Thursday when U.S. Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed and handcuffed during a live press conference in Los Angeles, drawing outrage from top Democratic leaders.
Padilla, a Democratic senator representing California, attempted to confront Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem, over recent immigration operations in the city, but was physically restrained and escorted out by federal agents.
The drama unfolded at a federal building in downtown Los Angeles, where Noem was addressing reporters. Senator Padilla walked into the room, identified himself, and began to ask a question when security agents intercepted him.
