SEIU California President Injured, Detained During ICE Raids in Los Angeles

David Huerta, president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California, was injured and detained during Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles, sparking protests and calls for his immediate release. According to multiple sources, Huerta was involved in a confrontation with federal agents while observing and documenting the raids, exercising his First Amendment rights. He was reportedly tased, pushed to the ground, and pepper-sprayed, sustaining injuries that required medical attention; despite being treated and released from the hospital, he remains in ICE custody. SEIU and local leaders condemned the raids as disruptive and harmful to immigrant communities, emphasizing the essential role of immigrant workers and demanding an end to the aggressive enforcement tactics. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed anger over the raids and highlighted the emotional trauma witnessed, while California Governor Gavin Newsom blamed the intensified raids on President Donald Trump's policies. The incident has drawn widespread criticism and mobilized immigrant support groups and politicians to advocate for immigrant rights and protections against such federal actions.