Sen. Alex Padilla handcuffed at DHS press conference: Full video

Senator Alex Padilla, D-Calif., was forcibly removed from a press conference held by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in Los Angeles. Padilla interrupted Noem as she discussed deportation efforts in California amidst recent immigration enforcement protests.

Padilla clarified that he was not arrested or detained after the incident. Despite the altercation, he later met with Noem for a 15-minute discussion.

Video footage shows Padilla being pulled by officers and eventually handcuffed after attempting to ask a question to the Secretary.

Noem accused Padilla of disruptive behavior during the press conference, leading to his temporary detention by the U.S. Secret Service. Padilla, determined to hold the Trump administration accountable, expressed concerns over the treatment of individuals in California.

Padilla’s office defended his actions as part of his Congressional oversight duties. The incident sparked outrage among Democrats, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer demanding answers.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the treatment of Padilla, highlighting concerns over government actions.

The Department of Homeland Security defended the officers’ actions, labeling Padilla’s behavior as “disrespectful political theatre.” Despite the controversy, Padilla’s identification as a senator prior to the incident was acknowledged in the video footage.

DHS maintained that Padilla failed to comply with officers’ commands, leading to his removal. The agency also stated that Secret Service agents perceived him as a potential threat, justifying their response.

While the situation escalated quickly, Secretary Noem and Senator Padilla later engaged in a productive meeting to address the confrontation.