Democratic California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has sparked controversy and drawn criticism for drawing a parallel between the anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles and the behavior seen during Eagles fan celebrations after a playoff win. Izzy Gardon, Newsom’s communications director, made the comparison during an interview with Fox News Digital. This analogy has generated sharp criticism from local and federal officials, who argue that the violence in LA is a direct consequence of the political environment created by Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. The situation has intensified, with federal agencies and the Trump administration condemning the riots. The analogy has further deepened the divide between the Democratic and Republican factions, with the latter accusing Newsom of failing to protect citizens and allowing chaos to take hold.
Fox News Digital reached out to the governor’s office to enquire about claims by California Republicans and locals that Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass were partially responsible for the riots. California Republicans and locals have issued messages defending illegal immigrants and condemning federal agents for conducting deportation raids in the left-leaning city. This has sparked a firestorm of public opinion, with both sides claiming responsibility for the ongoing unrest and violence. The situation has escalated as federal officials have pointed the blame at Democratic elected officials for ‘dangerous’ rhetoric, which they believe has incited the riots and violent mob actions against ICE agents. This has drawn a significant response from the Trump administration, which has criticized the Democratic leaders for fostering an environment that allows for the violence to erupt and persist.
The violence in Los Angeles has included targeted attacks on federal law enforcement officials, with violent protesters throwing rocks and other items at immigration officers. The situation has prompted federal action, with Trump signing a presidential memorandum to deploy 2,000 National Guardsmen to Paramount, California, to help quell the violence. The Trump administration has also criticized local leaders for the chaos, with Trump himself posting on Truth Social that if Newsom and Bass cannot manage their responsibilities, the Federal Government will intervene. Newsom has responded to the criticism, with his office doubling down on its stance by calling the federal immigration operations ‘basic’ and defending illegal immigrants against deportation. The ongoing tension highlights a significant political struggle as both sides continue to accuse each other of inciting the violence and failing to protect citizens, resulting in a complex and polarized situation in Los Angeles.