In Support of Senator Alex Padilla

The Alice B. Toklas LGBTQ Democratic Club proudly backs Senator Alex Padilla for defending his constituents at today's event at the Department of Homeland Security in Los Angeles. The forceful removal and handcuffing of Senator Padilla by federal agents that occurred was not only an outrageous overreach of law enforcement authority—it was a troubling escalation in the silencing of dissent and disruption of democratic norms.

Senator Padilla, California’s first Latino U.S. Senator, was respectfully seeking answers about immigration enforcement in his home state—a duty well within his rights and responsibilities as an elected official. The fact that he was thrown to the ground, handcuffed, and treated like a threat reflects the increasingly authoritarian tactics embraced by the Trump administration.

We are grateful for Senator Padilla and all leaders who speak truth to power, especially in defense of immigrant communities and civil liberties. We join the growing chorus of voices calling for an immediate investigation into this incident and full accountability for those responsible.

Democracy depends on transparency, oversight, and the protection of those who challenge injustice. Today’s actions were an affront to those values.

In community,

The Alice B. Toklas LGBTQ Democratic Club