Republicans Launch New Probe
In a major move that underscores growing concern over sanctuary city policies and the immigration crisis, House Republicans have launched a full-scale investigation into California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. The probe focuses on their handling of violent protests that erupted this week in response to President Donald Trump’s bold immigration enforcement operations.
Lawmakers Demand Accountability Amid Violent Unrest
House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) and Federal Law Enforcement Subcommittee Chair Clay Higgins (R-LA) are demanding answers after scenes of chaos, destruction, and violence overtook parts of Los Angeles. Protesters clashed with law enforcement until National Guard troops restored order.
“Local leaders claimed the situation was under control, but what America witnessed was lawlessness,” the lawmakers wrote. “Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass have not only failed their citizens—they’ve undermined federal law and enabled violence through radical sanctuary city policies.”
Sanctuary Policies Under Fire
California’s refusal to cooperate with federal immigration authorities is once again in the spotlight. Newsom and Bass have championed policies that shield illegal immigrants—even those with criminal records—from deportation. GOP lawmakers argue this defiance is fueling anti-American rhetoric and encouraging violent demonstrations.
“You are choosing to protect individuals who incite riots and hold anti-American beliefs,” the letter reads. “Your administration’s actions have directly contributed to the breakdown of public safety.”
Congressional Committee Demands Key Records
Republicans have issued a formal request for all internal documents and communications between state and local officials, federal agencies, and the offices of Newsom and Bass. They are also demanding video footage, police dispatch logs, and records detailing how rioters obtained weapons like rocks and cinderblocks.
The deadline for document delivery is June 27.
Sen. Josh Hawley Launches Parallel Probe Into Alleged Protest Funders
Meanwhile, Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO), who chairs the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism, has launched a separate inquiry into whether a local nonprofit is funding the unrest.
The group under scrutiny—The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights—is being asked to produce financial records and internal communications to determine whether donor funds are being used to fuel anti-government activities.
Democrats Blame Trump—But Critics Say the Facts Tell a Different Story
In typical fashion, Democrat leaders have rushed to blame President Trump, claiming his immigration crackdowns and National Guard deployments provoked the protests.
But conservatives say that narrative doesn’t hold water.
“This is about leadership,” said a Republican source familiar with the probe. “Trump is enforcing the law. Newsom and Bass are encouraging lawlessness—and the American people are paying the price.”
What’s Next?
As the June 27 deadline approaches, all eyes are on California. Will Democrat leaders cooperate? Or will they continue to stonewall federal oversight?
One thing is certain: with illegal immigration, sanctuary cities, and public safety on the line, this investigation is only just beginning.
