A former Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy and local GOP official sharply criticized California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s handling of recent anti-ICE unrest, arguing that delayed leadership effectively “handcuffed” the police. Speaking from downtown L.A. in the aftermath of arson, looting, and violent protests, Patrick Gipson accused the governor and Mayor Karen Bass of reactionary decision-making, saying earlier National Guard deployment could have curbed destruction.
Gipson said the state’s slow response “allowed cars to burn, businesses to be looted,” and saddled taxpayers with the cost. He noted that had action been taken sooner, law enforcement may have responded more effectively and prevented “billions” in claims.
Governor Newsom and city leaders have defended their timelines, citing concerns over civil liberties and the need to manage federal-local relations. This criticism arrives amid broader controversy over federal intervention—President Trump brought in thousands of troops, prompting legal challenges and escalating tensions over state sovereignty.