Tom Homan, the border czar under the Trump administration, did not hold back when he confronted California Governor Gavin Newsom, labeling him an “embarrassment” for his failure to tackle crime and ensure safer cities. Homan’s remarks came in response to Newsom’s criticism of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in California, which Homan argues are essential for public safety.
As illegal immigration continues to spark national debate, the Trump administration has implemented a series of measures aimed at addressing the situation. Homan noted the ongoing crisis caused by illegal immigration, asserting that many undocumented individuals are involved in criminal activity that poses a direct threat to American citizens. Instead of acknowledging these efforts, Governor Newsom has reacted by dismissing ICE’s actions, going so far as to accuse the agency of functioning as Trump’s “private police force.”
Newsom claimed that additional funding for ICE included in the recent appropriations bill aimed to bolster this so-called private police force, saying, “When they’re done with this—all that funding and that ‘big beautiful betrayal’ allows more resources for this private police force.” His rhetoric has become a staple of his public statements, as he seeks to position himself against federal immigration enforcement.
In a pointed rebuttal, Homan asserted that Newsom’s response is not only misguided but fundamentally flawed given the reality on the ground. “Newsom is an embarrassment to the position he holds. Hard stop,” he declared, emphasizing the importance of supporting law enforcement and acknowledging their sacrifices. Homan believes that the governor should be expressing gratitude to President Trump and the ICE agents who are working tirelessly to improve safety in cities like Los Angeles.
“If he had an ounce of integrity he’d be calling President Trump and thanking him for making LA safer,” Homan remarked, illustrating his view that the administration’s actions are benefitting vulnerable communities. He further pointed out that many criminals have been apprehended thanks to ICE’s efforts, noting that these operations contribute to a safer environment for all Californians. “He’d be calling the head of ICE and thanking them for the thousands of criminals, public safety threats they’ve taken off the streets of California,” Homan insisted.
Homan didn’t stop at criticizing Newsom. He also took aim at the Department of Homeland Security, suggesting that the governor should be thankful for the data showing a decline in criminal activity due to federal enforcement operations. “He’d be calling Secretary Noem, thanking her. If the data proves it, anybody can look at the data who we’ve arrested in California, he ought to be thanking us,” Homan said, highlighting the importance of accountability and accurate analysis of the situation.
In his closing remarks, Homan reiterated his disdain for Newsom’s stance, suggesting that the governor’s actions and rhetoric are more about personal relevance than public service. “So Governor Newsom is an embarrassment to the position he holds. And, you know, he’s trying to be relevant apparently, whatever,” Homan concluded, stating that the Trump administration would continue its operations across California, including a presence in major cities like San Diego.
The confrontation lays bare the deep divide between federal and state policies on immigration and public safety, revealing how political motivations can hinder the dialogue necessary for effective governance. As both sides continue to spar, the residents of California find themselves caught in the crossfire, facing challenges that demand solutions rather than rhetoric.
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