Dear neighbor,

Yesterday, I was appalled that Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly detained at a federal building in our district. The video footage of Senator Padilla getting pinned to the ground and handcuffed, when he clearly identified himself, is shocking and despicable. As a federal official, he had every right to be there and ask questions of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem. Why is she afraid to answer questions?

Maybe it’s because of ICE’s extreme, unjust actions, including deporting young children, detaining American citizens, and now, taking down a United States Senator trying to do his job.

Donald Trump and the MAGA extremists have repeatedly taken actions that have generated fear in our communities and made things less safe for all of us.

We will not let this stand. House Democrats have been pushing back and fighting against the lawlessness of Trump and ICE. Upon the news of Senator Padilla’s assault, we immediately convened on the steps of the United States Capitol to denounce the ridiculous, cruel actions of this Administration, and demand accountability and change. You can watch my remarks here.

Every American has a First Amendment right to peacefully assemble. Peacefully protesting and righteously speaking truth to power are time-honored traditions that are a part of our country’s rich heritage. You have a protected right to exercise free speech, whether it is peacefully monitoring the actions of ICE, participating in town halls, or attending community gatherings. I often quote Abraham Lincoln, whose wise words could not feel truer today: “Public sentiment is everything. With it, nothing can fail. Without it, nothing can succeed.”

Making your voice heard is how we hold our government accountable. The American people will not be silent – we must continue to call out what is wrong and stand up for what is right.

Watch my full NBC interview on this topic below:

STATEMENT ON ISRAELI STRIKES ON IRAN: Thursday night, Israel launched military strikes on Iran. Read my full statement here. 

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: LA County’s Office of Immigrant Affairs has a webpage dedicated to connecting community members to information, resources, and services. Check it out here and stay informed.

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS: If you or a loved one are experiencing mental health distress because of the California wildfires, there is 24/7 support and resources available through LA County’s Mental Health Department Help Line at (800) 854-7771 and through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. In-person mental health services are also available. Please visit here to find out more.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES: Every year, my office opens applications for CA-36's Youth Advisory Council. This is an opportunity for students grades 9-12 that live or attend school in the district to work with my office to recommend bills and discuss important issues. Applications are due July 11, and more information can be found on my website. My LA and DC offices are also now accepting applications for our internship program this fall. Applications are due soon – learn more here. 

My LA office is here to help you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help with a federal agency. Our phone number is (323) 651-1040. 

I look forward to updating you again soon.

Warmly,

Ted