While giving a briefing on federal efforts to restore peace in Los Angeles, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s press conference became engulfed in a display some critics called ‘political theater’ when a California Democratic lawmaker interrupted Noem’s remarks. Following the incident, Noem criticized Padilla’s ‘absolutely ridiculous’ statement, noting his behavior was ‘completely inappropriate’ and ‘not becoming’ of a public official. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that Padilla did not identify himself as a senator and was not wearing his Senate security pin. After being escorted out of the room, Padilla claimed he was ‘forced to the ground.’ Noem denied the allegations, stating that security officers acted appropriately and that Padilla’s behavior was ‘not becoming’ of a public official. She further suggested that Padilla may have ‘wanted the scene’ and warned of the administration’s potential mistreatment of laborers in Los Angeles.