Senator Padilla Handcuffed at DHS Press Conference: Schiff Condemns 'Disgraceful' Action, White House Disagrees

On June 12th, 2025, a significant incident unfolded at a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) press conference in Washington D.C. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) was forcibly removed and handcuffed by federal agents while attempting to ask Secretary Mayorkas a question. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), reacting to the event, stated, "I'm just disgusted by what I saw." Schiff's statement highlights the controversy surrounding the incident, emphasizing the perceived violation of Senator Padilla's right to question the Secretary. The White House responded by condemning Senator Padilla's actions, calling them a "theater-kid stunt." This conflicting narrative between Senator Schiff's condemnation and the White House's dismissal creates a compelling news story. The incident raises questions about the appropriate use of force against a sitting Senator and the transparency of the DHS. The ongoing investigation promises to shed more light on the circumstances leading to Senator Padilla's arrest.