During a tense confrontation involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) authorities and demonstrators, Representative Maxine Waters criticized the heavy law enforcement presence, accusing them of trying to intimidate and frighten residents in a sanctuary city. She urged restraint, emphasizing that there was no justification for using firearms and expressing hope that no one would be harmed in the escalating situation.
Waters later attempted to enter a federal building to check on SEIU President David Huerta, who had been injured and arrested during the clashes. Citing her “congressional authority,” she demanded access to the facility but was denied entry by security personnel, who informed her that the lobby was closed to all visitors. The incident underscores rising tensions between federal authorities and local leaders amid immigration protests.