Comer demands answers from Newsom, Bass on handling of Los Angeles riots
The House Oversight Committee is currently conducting an investigation into the riots that took place in Los Angeles, specifically focusing on the actions of California officials during the unrest. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, along with Rep. Clay Higgins, sent letters to California Governor Gavin Newsom, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, and the Department of Justice on Friday regarding the matter.
Comer expressed concern over the violent acts committed by rioters in Los Angeles, including setting fire to vehicles and property, and assaulting law enforcement officers with weapons such as rocks and Molotov cocktails. He emphasized the importance of holding those responsible for such actions accountable and ensuring that they face appropriate consequences.
The letters sent to Newsom and Bass also addressed their response to President Trump’s efforts to address the violence caused by the rioters. The Oversight Committee accused them of falsely blaming the president for the actions of the violent rioters and highlighted their support for California’s sanctuary policies, which limit cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
GOP investigators are now seeking documentation of any communications between Bass and Newsom regarding the protests, as well as their interactions with state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies. Additionally, Comer has requested a staff-level briefing on the demonstrations that occurred in Los Angeles.
The riots in Los Angeles were sparked by Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids that resulted in the arrest of over 100 suspected illegal immigrants. President Trump deployed the National Guard to Los Angeles, despite objections from Governor Newsom. The decision was met with criticism from Democrats, who accused Trump of escalating the situation unnecessarily, while Republican allies defended the move as necessary to restore order.
Law enforcement in Los Angeles had to resort to using pepper spray to disperse crowds and make numerous arrests as the situation escalated. A federal judge initially ruled that control of the California National Guard should be returned to Newsom, but an appeals court overturned that decision shortly after.
The protests in Los Angeles are part of a larger wave of activism across the country in response to the Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration. Activists have been vocal in their opposition to these policies, leading to demonstrations in various cities.
Fox News Digital reached out to Bass, Newsom, and the DOJ for comment on the ongoing investigation by the House Oversight Committee. The outcome of the probe and any potential implications for California officials remain to be seen.
Elizabeth Elkind, a politics reporter for Fox News Digital, is leading the coverage of the House of Representatives. Follow her on Twitter at @liz_elkind for the latest updates and send tips to elizabeth.elkind@fox.com.
