Violating Basic Rights, Eroding Public Trust

In communities across California over the past two weeks, immigration enforcement operations are being carried out in ways that violate basic rights and erode public trust. 

The federal government is targeting immigrants in ways that are not only cruel – they’re unconstitutional. ICE’s aggressive tactics are tearing families apart, sowing fear in our neighborhoods and undermining the very fabric our community. 

The Trump Administration has chosen to weaponize immigration enforcement – not to enhance public safety but to intimidate and divide. 

Nowhere is this more evident than in our own backyard – a region that thrives because of its diversity and immigrant population. Los Angeles is home to millions of immigrants who contribute to every aspect of our region’s life and economy. Yet many here live under the constant shadow of ICE raids and deportations, fearful of losing everything they have worked for. 

The Trump Administration deliberately escalated tensions. For the first time since the fight to integrate schools in the South, the federal government ordered California’s National Guard and the United States Marines to act over the objections of the Governor.  

Let me be clear: this federal overreach does not keep us safe. It’s intended to cause chaos and distract. This is not just reckless; it’s a betrayal of American values and the constitutional rights that they’ve sworn an oath to uphold and defend.  Moreover, President Trump has made baseless assertions that Gov. Gavin Newsom should be arrested. This comes after the arrest and detention of SEIU California leader David Huerta. Make no mistake: This rhetoric of jailing one’s political opponents is a direct threat to our democracy. This reckless rhetoric should be denounced.

The recent actions of the federal government have torn families apart, undermined due process and violated fundamental rights. Deporting people without a fair hearing – and even deporting American citizens – is absolutely unacceptable.

I’ve heard from many constituents who are angry, frustrated and feeling helpless.  Californians being targeted by the Trump Administration are our neighbors, friends and colleagues.  

Thankfully, our office has some resources to help. Our schools remain safe spaces for students and their families. We have immigration resources and legal assistance organizations at the ready to educate us and help defend immigrant rights.  

If you or someone you know needs support, you can refer to the Know Your Rights page on my website: Know Your Rights | Official Website – Assemblymember Nick Schultz, California Assembly District 44 [https:///a44.asmdc.org/know-your-rights]

This fight is about justice. It’s about fairness. It’s about remaining true to our Constitution. It’s about the kind of California we want to be – a state that leads with compassion and respect for all people. I stand united with Los Angeles and all Californians against this reckless authoritarian overreach by the Trump Administration. 

As always, please do not hesitate to contact our district office if you have questions or if we can be of assistance. Our phone number is (818) 558-3043, and email address is Assemblymember.Schultz@Assembly.ca.gov.