Former Vice President Kamala Harris offered support for the Los Angeles protesters demonstrating against ICE operations—even after the situation devolved into violence, with rioters throwing concrete and bottles at federal agents.
Despite the chaos on the ground, Harris released a statement praising what she called the “courage” of the demonstrators, arguing that they were “standing up for justice” in the face of what she described as “inhumane enforcement.” Her words came as federal agents reported multiple injuries and described the situation as a “coordinated riot.”
My statement on what’s unfolding in Los Angeles. pic.twitter.com/rujs8mrVPK
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) June 8, 2025
Law enforcement officials on the ground said ICE officers were targeted with debris and makeshift weapons while attempting to carry out lawful arrests of individuals with outstanding deportation orders, some of whom reportedly had prior criminal convictions. DHS confirmed that federal officers were attacked with concrete blocks, and images from the scene showed agents in riot gear attempting to control the crowd.
Harris, who has long criticized ICE, used the opportunity to double down on her stance against immigration enforcement. “These brave protesters remind us that dignity and justice must guide our policies,” she posted online, making no mention of the violence that had erupted or the injuries sustained by officers.
Federal officials expressed frustration at what they viewed as a deliberate downplaying of the attacks by top Democrats. One ICE spokesperson said the agency was “deeply disturbed that elected leaders would excuse or even celebrate actions that endanger our officers and interfere with federal law.”
Meanwhile, critics say Harris’s support for the demonstrations sends a dangerous signal to radical activists willing to use violence to resist lawful enforcement. Former ICE Director Tom Homan slammed the administration’s response, calling it “reckless” and “deeply disrespectful” to the men and women protecting U.S. communities.
The LA protests are just the latest flashpoint in a broader national movement that has turned increasingly confrontational. As federal officers brace for more unrest, the Vice President’s comments have only added fuel to the fire.
