From left to right: Alex Padilla, Brad Lander and LaMonica McIver
A rising number of Democratic officials are being arrested or charged in connection with immigration-related protests and defiance, as US President Donald Trump’s enforcement agenda triggers sharp criticism and growing concern among party leaders.Democrats argue the arrests show Trump is dragging the country’s democracy to the edge. But for Trump’s supporters, the images of defiant politicians in handcuffs are exactly what they wanted.Meanwhile, the Trump administration continues to send military reinforcements to assist immigration enforcement in southern states and revive earlier workplace raids.Here’s a breakdown of who’s been detained or charged in recent weeks:Brad Lander: Arrested outside immigration court
Lander had reportedly been observing court proceedings when he linked arms with an immigrant facing detention. His peaceful act of protest was captured on camera and widely circulated. It has become one of the most symbolic arrests yet under Trump’s revived crackdown on undocumented migrants.
Lander’s team insists the arrest was politically motivated.
Alex Padilla: Removed from press event
Though he was not arrested, the footage of his removal spread rapidly online. Days later, Padilla denounced Trump on the Senate floor, calling him a “tyrant”.
LaMonica McIver: Charged after ICE protest
The case has attracted significant attention, especially since it follows a wave of protests in Democrat-run cities.
Hannah Dugan: Judge indicted for obstruction
Dugan has yet to publicly comment in detail, but her legal team has argued that her actions were misrepresented and that she did not break any laws.
Ras Baraka: Mayor arrested at ICE facility
The Trump administration recently reversed course on earlier limits, saying it would again carry out raids on farms, hotels, meatpacking plants and restaurants. The Pentagon confirmed an additional 700 military personnel have been deployed to assist immigration efforts in Florida, Louisiana and Texas. Trump’s team continues to dismiss the arrests as “viral moment” attempts, but Democratic leaders see a deeper threat to democratic norms.