GRAY, PADILLA, SCHIFF DEMAND ANSWERS FROM ICE IN RESPONSE TO INCREASED ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITY IN MENDOTA

Congressman Adam Gray (CA-13), Senator Alex Padilla, and Senator Adam Schiff are demanding answers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following reports of increased enforcement activity and resident detentions in Mendota beginning on October 5.

In a letter to Acting ICE Director David Venturella, the lawmakers requested details about the operations' purpose and scope, the number of individuals detained, and the safeguards in place to protect due process and minimize disruption to local families and businesses.

"Mendota is a hardworking agricultural community, and families should not have to fear going to work or taking their kids to school," the lawmakers wrote. "Federal immigration laws must be enforced, but how that happens matters. We need answers about what's taking place, who is being targeted and whether people's rights are being protected."

The lawmakers also asked whether local law enforcement was consulted, where detainees are being held, and what steps ICE is taking to address concerns raised by Mendota's mayor and City Council.

The letter emphasizes the importance of protecting public safety and due process while recognizing the essential role farmworkers play in the Central Valley economy and America's food supply.

"The people of Mendota deserve to know why these operations are taking place and what safeguards are in place to protect their families and community," the lawmakers wrote. "The federal government's responsibility to enforce immigration law does not give it license to create fear across an entire community."

Read the full text of the letter here.