Maxine Waters’ long history of controversial remarks resurfaces amid LA immigration riots

Eighteen-term Democrat Rep. Maxine Waters has once again made headlines after several encounters with federal authorities during the ongoing illegal immigration riots in California. This is not the first time Waters has found herself at the center of unrest in Los Angeles.

Back in 1992, as she was completing her first term in Congress, the acquittal of White LAPD officers in the Rodney King case led to riots in Los Angeles. Waters, who represents a district in South Los Angeles, was deeply affected by the violence. At the time, she was quoted as referring to the riots not as a “riot” but as a “rebellion,” downplaying the severity of the chaos.

During the 1992 riots, Waters joined forces with Rev. Jesse Jackson in urging the Justice Department to file civil rights charges against the acquitted officers. She placed blame on LAPD Chief Daryl Gates and President George H.W. Bush for the unrest.

In recent years, Waters has faced criticism for her controversial statements and actions. In 2021, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia attempted to have Waters expelled from Congress for “inciting violence and terrorism.” Greene cited Waters’ past remarks, including a declaration that she was “not afraid of George Bush” and a pledge to “get rid of” then-Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld.

Waters has also faced backlash for comments made at an LGBTQ gala where she stated, “I will go and take out Trump tonight.” While some defended her remarks as rhetorical and political, others saw them as threatening.

During the Trump administration, Waters was filmed encouraging disruptive behavior towards Trump supporters. She famously urged people to confront Trump allies in public places, sparking controversy and accusations of inciting violence.

In April 2021, Waters made headlines once again for her remarks during the trial of Derek Chauvin, the ex-Minneapolis officer charged with the murder of George Floyd. Waters told protesters to “stay” in the streets and to get “more confrontational” if the jury delivered a not-guilty verdict.

Most recently, Waters was seen in California during the immigration raids, attempting to gain entry to the Metropolitan Detention Center to check on a union leader who was arrested. She encountered National Guardsmen at the scene, questioning their presence and even asking if they planned to shoot her.

Despite facing criticism and controversy throughout her career, Waters has continued to be re-elected with strong support from her constituents. Her polarizing comments have led to significant donations for her Republican challengers, but Waters has maintained her stronghold in her district.

As the 86-year-old congresswoman continues to make headlines, her influence and impact on American politics remain undeniable. Love her or hate her, Maxine Waters is a force to be reckoned with in Washington.