CNN security analyst and former FBI agent Josh Campbell defended Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and the agents who restrained Senator Alex Padilla during a press conference in Los Angeles. Campbell detailed the incident, which took place during a press conference where Noem was addressing the media about the riots. Padilla interrupted the event, attempting to approach Noem while she was speaking. Law enforcement officers, including members of the Secret Service and FBI Police, intervened and forcibly removed Padilla from the scene. The video of the incident, which has since gone viral, shows Padilla being taken to the ground and handcuffed after he was identified as the senator.
Campbell broke the incident into three key moments, each of which will be scrutinized. The first moment involved Noem being interrupted by Padilla during the press conference. The second occurred when Padilla turned back toward the agents after being escorted out, prompting them to take further action. The third moment was when the agents placed Padilla on the ground and handcuffed him, a move that has raised questions about the tactics used. Campbell defended the actions of the agents, stating that they acted according to protocol and that Padilla’s behavior necessitated the intervention. He emphasized that the senator’s status did not exempt him from the consequences of his actions.
FBI and Secret Service officials have issued statements supporting the agents’ actions. An FBI spokesperson said Padilla was detained after being