Controversy Erupts Over Speaker's Call for Public Torture of California Governor
In a heated political exchange, the Speaker of the US House, Mike Johnson, stirred controversy by suggesting that California Governor Gavin Newsom should be "tarred and feathered" — a brutal form of public humiliation and torture historically used to punish perceived offenders.
Speaker Suggests Harsh Punishment but Skips Legal Details
During a Republican leadership press conference, Johnson refrained from commenting on whether Newsom should face arrest for allegedly hindering federal law enforcement. When pressed, he said, "It's not in my lane" to weigh in on legal matters, but was unequivocal about his stance on punitive action.
"I'm not going to give you legal analysis on whether Gavin Newsom should be arrested," Johnson stated, "But he ought to be tarred and feathered, I'll say that."
He accused Newsom of obstructing federal immigration enforcement, applauding lawbreakers, and siding against federal agents. "He is a participant, an accomplice," Johnson affirmed.
Escalating Tensions Over Immigration Enforcement
The remarks come as violent protests showdown a days-long backlash against aggressive immigration raids in Los Angeles. President Donald Trump has responded by deploying thousands of troops to the city to bolster enforcement efforts.
Governor Newsom slammed the military presence as fulfilling "the deranged fantasy of a dictatorial president," labeling it an authoritarian power grab implemented without his consent. California has filed a lawsuit challenging the federal government's unilateral deployment.
In direct response to Trump’s actions, Newsom described the troop mobilization as "an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism" and dismissed it as "stroking a dangerous president's ego."
Federal Officials Warn of Arrests Amid Interference
Tom Homan, Trump's Border Czar, warned that local elected officials could face arrest if they interfere with immigration agents. "We're going to keep enforcing law every day in L.A.," Homan declared firmly, "I don’t care if they like it or not."
He emphasized that knowingly harboring or obstructing illegal immigration enforcement constitutes a felony. "You cross that line, it’s a felony," Homan underscored.
President Trump expressed support for Homan's stance, saying, "I would do it if I were Tom. I think it’s great. I like Gavin Newsom. He’s a nice guy. But he’s grossly incompetent."
Newsom Challenges Arrest Threat: ‘Come After Me’
In a defiant counter, Newsom dared authorities to detain him, saying, "Come after me, arrest me, let’s just get it over with tough guy. I don’t give a damn." This emphatic challenge further fuels the ongoing confrontation between state and federal officials.
Military Presence Intensifies Amid Unrest
To restore order amid protests, approximately 700 Marines and 4,000 National Guard troops have been deployed in Los Angeles. While the US military typically refrains from domestic law enforcement, such deployments have precedent during emergencies like Hurricane Katrina and major terrorist incidents.
The escalating crisis highlights deep divisions over immigration policy enforcement and federal-state relations, with tensions showing no sign of easing soon.
