Rep. Darrell Issa Slams California Democrats Over Response to Anti-ICE Riots in Los Angeles

Republican Congressman Darrell Issa is sharply criticizing Democratic leaders in California over their handling of recent anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles, calling for a congressional investigation into what he describes as a dangerously slow law enforcement response.

“These are the same people who told us Biden was fine and on top of his game,” Issa told Fox News. “Their credibility crumbles when what they say doesn’t match what the public is witnessing. This is a clear example of why voters should not trust or support this party while it continues to lie so blatantly.”

The unrest in Los Angeles began Friday and has escalated into multiple nights of violent clashes, vandalism, and attacks on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. While many Democratic leaders have emphasized that the demonstrations were largely peaceful, Issa and other Republicans argue the violence has been downplayed.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have suggested that former President Donald Trump’s decision to mobilize the National Guard contributed to tensions. But Issa disputes that narrative.

“Destruction was already underway before Trump took action,” Issa said. “ICE agents called for police support when they were under attack, and it took two hours for officers to arrive — not because they couldn’t, but because they weren’t authorized to respond. That delay alone justified federal intervention.”

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) pushed back against the two-hour delay claim, stating in a press conference that traffic was to blame for a 40-minute response time.

Nevertheless, Issa has formally requested a congressional probe into the Department of Homeland Security’s account of the events. He argues that the broader situation reflects a breakdown in support for law enforcement and federal immigration officers at the local level.

“Millions of people have entered the U.S., and tens of thousands are serious criminal offenders,” Issa said. “If ICE agents aren’t protected by city and state officials, then the president must step in to ensure their safety — even if that means federal escorts.”

Issa praised Trump’s decisive approach, crediting it with preventing similar outbreaks of unrest in other cities.

“What we learned in 2020 is that failure to act quickly can lead to nationwide chaos,” Issa said. “Back then, more than two dozen people died and billions in damage was done. Strong action now is helping to prevent that from happening again.”

The congressman represents California’s 48th Congressional District and has emerged as a leading voice among Republicans calling for greater federal enforcement in sanctuary jurisdictions.