Gomez, Jimmy RSS Articles

Unannounced Gomez Inspection Reveals ICE Is Temporarily Closing Downtown LA Detention Facility, Transferring 22 People to Santa Ana

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WATCH: Congressman Gomez reports from outside the B-18 detention facility following today’s inspection

LOS ANGELES, CA — An unannounced congressional inspection by Congressman Jimmy Gomez today revealed that ICE is temporarily closing its B-18 detention facility in Downtown Los Angeles and transferring all 22 people currently detained there to a facility in Santa Ana.

ICE officials disclosed the planned closure and transfers after Gomez arrived at B-18 without advance notice to inspect conditions inside the facility. Officials told Gomez that the facility is being temporarily closed because ICE expects demonstrations in the area this weekend.

The closure and transfers had not been publicly announced before Gomez’s inspection.

“The public only knows about this because we showed up unannounced and demanded answers,” said Congressman Gomez. “I sued the Trump administration to protect Congress’s right to conduct these inspections, and I won. ICE cannot operate behind closed doors, and I will keep showing up to hold them accountable.”

Today’s disclosure demonstrates the importance of preserving Congress’s authority to conduct unannounced inspections of immigration detention facilities. After the Trump administration attempted to block Members of Congress from entering ICE facilities without advance notice, Gomez personally sued the administration and won, restoring Congress’s ability to conduct surprise oversight visits.

Since the Trump administration began its immigration raids in Los Angeles, Gomez has repeatedly confronted ICE and worked to protect the constitutional rights of people in his district. He went directly from the airport to Chinatown during the initial raids and successfully pressed federal agents to leave the area to defuse the situation. He has also conducted repeated detention-facility inspections, trained community members to serve as legal observers, organized town halls and provided legal resources to thousands of constituents.

Gomez also introduced the Make Housing Affordable and Defend Democracy Act, legislation that would redirect the Trump administration’s $175 billion funding increase for ICE and Customs and Border Protection toward housing affordability and working families.

###

Rep. Gomez Condemns ICE Killings on House Floor: “No Matter Who You Are or What Title You Hold, You Will Be Prosecuted”

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) delivered a House floor speech tracing how the Trump administration’s anti-immigrant push escalated from the first raids in Los Angeles into an increasingly violent nationwide campaign, culminating in the recent deaths of two fathers, Lorenzo Salgado Araujo and Joan Sebastian Guerrero.

Gomez argued that the killings were the foreseeable consequence of repeated warnings being ignored, accountability being abandoned, and Congressional Republicans continuing to fund U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) without meaningful oversight, and he put agents and officials who violate constitutional rights on notice that their actions will not be forgotten or excused.

Watch Rep. Gomez's full House floor speech here.

REP. GOMEZ: "Thirteen months ago, when Trump's immigration raids began in my district, I warned exactly where this was headed. I warned that if ICE agents were allowed to operate without accountability, that violence would escalate. I warned that people would die. I didn't want to be right. But here we are.

"This isn't normal. This isn't law enforcement. This is lawlessness. No due process. No Miranda rights. Instead, some in Trump's ICE are acting as judge, jury, and executioner.

"This is what happens when people who wear the badge are told the rules don’t apply to them.

Over the last year, we've witnessed ICE become more violent, more reckless, and more deadly. We've witnessed masked agents jump out of unmarked vehicles. We've witnessed people tackled, beaten, and shot. We've even seen children used as bait to detain their parents.

“And what has this administration done? What have Congressional Republicans done? Not a darn thing. No accountability. No transparency. No consequences.

“Last week, Lorenzo Salgado Araujo left for work and never came home. His son, Ronaldo, said something every Member of this chamber should hear:

“He did not deserve to die. He did not deserve to be reduced to a headline of ‘Mexican man shot and killed by ICE.’ He deserved to live a quiet life as Lorenzo Salgado Araujo—a husband, a father, and a job creator.”

“Then yesterday, a little girl in Maine watched her father’s lifeless body being carried away by ICE. Think about that. Two fathers, two families, shattered. And in both cases, ICE wasn’t even targeting the men who died.

“ICE claims these men used their vehicles as weapons. But local news video tells a different story. It shows unmarked vehicles following them. It shows what happens before the shootings. And it shows that ICE wasn’t wearing body cameras, despite its own policies.

“This administration is asking Americans not to believe our own eyes over and over again. That is not acceptable. What’s even more unacceptable is that my Republican colleagues have watched this happen and responded by giving ICE billions of dollars more.

“How many more families have to bury a loved one before Republicans admit something is deeply wrong? The truth is, they know it’s wrong. They’re just too afraid to say it. Too afraid of Donald Trump. Too afraid of the political consequences. And I know, and they know where this leads.

“When these raids began in Los Angeles, I flew immediately back from Washington to conduct oversight and protect my communities. When the Trump administration tried to block me from inspecting ICE detention centers, I sued them—and won. I’ve trained legal observers to ICE document abuses, organized town halls, and introduced legislation to reclaim Trump’s $175 billion ICE slush fund and put it into housing.

“Every Representative here has a choice. They can keep writing blank checks for fear and abuse. Or they can join us in saying enough. Enough lawlessness. Enough brutality. Enough deaths.

“We warned this country what would happen. We warned that without accountability, that violence would escalate. We warned that people would die.

“Now hear this warning: if you committed a crime, if you violated the constitution, if you thought a badge put you above the law, you are wrong.

“We are watching, the American people are watching, and history is watching. And no matter who you are or the title you hold, you will be prosecuted. Accountability is coming.

“With that, I yield back.”

###

Rep. Gomez Statement on Fatal ICE Shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) released the following statement:

“Lorenzo Salgado Araujo was shot and killed by ICE. This is horrifying. It is infuriating. Every single American should be outraged that a father left for work and never came home,” said Rep. Gomez. “I’m calling for a full, independent investigation into Lorenzo’s death. His family deserves a full accounting of what ICE did, and if misconduct occurred, those responsible must be held accountable.”

###

VIDEO: Rep. Gomez Updates Estrada Courts Seniors on $7 Million Federal Investments Improving Their Homes

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Watch Rep. Gomez's full video here

LOS ANGELES, CA – Today, U.S. Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) met with seniors at Estrada Courts in Boyle Heights to hear directly from residents, provide updates on federal investments improving their community, and discuss ongoing efforts to protect programs seniors rely on, including Social Security and Medicare.

"Coming back to Estrada Courts is always one of my favorite parts of the job because the seniors here never hesitate to tell me what's on their minds. Today, they had a chance to talk to me about social security and money coming into Estrada Courts to help maintain their units, to get brand new windows, painting everything.” said Rep. Jimmy Gomez in video. "These conversations remind me why I fight every day in Washington to make sure seniors have the resources, dignity, and security they've earned after a lifetime of hard work."

Estrada Courts is home to more than 1,000 residents and has been the recipient of significant federal Community Project Funding secured by Rep. Gomez, including:

- $999,500 (FY2023) to preserve Estrada Courts as affordable housing through exterior painting, critical repairs, and other improvements.
- $2 million (FY2026) to install air conditioning units and ceiling fans in all apartments at Estrada Courts.
- $500,000 proposed (FY2027) to continue Phase II of the Estrada Courts Air Conditioner and Ceiling Fan Project, building on previous investments to help residents adapt to extreme heat.
- $650,000 (FY2022) for Project SOAR, expanding college, career, and workforce advising opportunities for youth and adult residents living in public housing communities, including Estrada Courts.

The visit comes a day after Rep. Gomez and his team partnered with local organizations to distribute air purifiers and other emergency supplies to Estrada Courts residents impacted by the nearby Lineage Logistics fire. While supporting residents through immediate emergencies remains a priority, Rep. Gomez continues working to secure long-term federal investments that strengthen affordable housing and quality of live for Estrada Courts residents.

###

Rep. Jimmy Gomez Delivers Air Purifiers and Essential Supplies to Families Impacted by the Lineage Logistics Fire

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Watch Rep. Gomez's video here

LOS ANGELES, CA – Today, U.S. Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) joined residents at Estrada Courts in Boyle Heights to distribute air purifiers, N95 masks, and other essential supplies to families still dealing with the health impacts of the Lineage Logistics fire. The event continued Rep. Gomez's ongoing efforts to connect residents with immediate relief while securing long-term federal investments to strengthen the community.

"Today, we were here at Estrada Courts making sure families have air purifiers and masks to help protect their lungs after the Lineage Logistics fire spread smoke across Boyle Heights," said Rep. Jimmy Gomez. "Our job isn't finished when the flames go out. We're helping people get through this crisis today while also investing in the long-term improvements this community deserves. That's why I've secured federal funding for air conditioning, building upgrades, and now additional investments to keep making Estrada Courts a healthier, safer place to call home. We're going to keep showing up, keep delivering, and keep fighting for Boyle Heights."

Estrada Courts, home to more than 1,000 low-income residents and located roughlyone mile from the warehouse fire, was among the neighborhoods hardest hit by smoke and poor air quality. In addition to providing emergency supplies, Rep. Gomez has secured federal Community Project Funding to improve living conditions at Estrada Courts, including funding for air conditioning, housing renovations, and additional upgrades, while proposing another $1 million for the next phase of the community's cooling project.

Rep. Gomez has made supporting communities impacted by the Lineage Logistics fire a top priority, working alongside local partners to distribute air purifiers, masks, water, and other essential resources while advocating for a full recovery effort and long-term investments that improve public health and quality of life for Boyle Heights families.

###

Rep. Jimmy Gomez Statement on Supreme Court Ruling Upholding Birthright Citizenship

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Watch Rep. Gomez's video here

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) released the following statement after the Supreme Court upheld birthright citizenship and rejected Donald Trump’s attack on the 14th Amendment:

“Birthright citizenship isn't a gift from a president. It's a promise in the Constitution itself.

“Today, the Supreme Court reaffirmed what the 14th Amendment has guaranteed for more than 150 years: if you are born in the United States, you are a citizen. That promise should never have been up for debate, and the fact that not every justice agreed should alarm every American.

“As the proud son of Mexican immigrants, this decision is deeply personal. My parents came to this country with little more than the belief that if they worked hard, their children would have opportunities they never did. My father was a bracero. My mother cleaned homes and cared for seniors. They sacrificed every day so my siblings and I could build a better future. Their story is the story of millions of families who have helped build this country.
When Donald Trump began attacking immigrant communities and trying to redefine who counts as an American, I didn't wait to see what would happen. I led more than 200 House Democrats in urging the Supreme Court to reject his unconstitutional attack on birthright citizenship.

"When he tried to block members of Congress from inspecting ICE detention centers, I sued him and won, protecting Congress' constitutional authority to expose abuses and hold this administration accountable. I stood up for Dreamers and TPS holders, fought to protect vulnerable immigrant children, and worked alongside community organizations in Los Angeles to defend families from intimidation and abuse.

“While today's ruling is a victory for the Constitution and for millions of Americans, this fight is not over. Donald Trump has made clear he will continue testing the limits of our Constitution and targeting immigrant communities. I've taken him on before, and I'll continue defending the Constitution, protecting our neighbors, and holding accountable anyone who abuses their power or violates the law.”

###

VIDEO: Rep. Jimmy Gomez Delivers Update on Relief Efforts for Families Impacted by the Lineage Logistics Fire

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Watch Rep. Gomez's video here

LOS ANGELES, CA – Today, U.S. Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) released a new video highlighting his office's ongoing effort to deliver air purifiers and other essential resources to families affected by the Lineage Logistics warehouse fire in Boyle Heights. Working alongside Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez, Proyecto Pastoral, and local community partners, Rep. Gomez and his team district team have helped distribute more than 1,000 air purifiers, thousands of masks, food, and other essential supplies to residents impacted by lingering smoke, odors, and poor air quality.

"Since day one of the Lineage Logistics fire in Boyle Heights, my team has been working alongside Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez and our community partners to get air purifiers, masks, food, and other essentials directly into the hands of families who need them most," said Rep. Jimmy Gomez. "If your household still needs an air purifier, please call my office. We'll connect you with one of our distribution partners and continue showing up until every family gets the help they need."

Rep. Gomez's office has partnered with Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez's office, Proyecto Pastoral, and numerous community organizations to provide relief throughout Boyle Heights and East Los Angeles. The effort has prioritized families living closest to the fire, seniors, children, people with respiratory conditions, and others facing ongoing health concerns from lingering smoke and poor air quality.

Rep. Gomez encouraged any resident still in need of an air purifier or other assistance to contact his office, which continues to coordinate with community partners to meet the needs of impacted families as recovery efforts continue.

###

VIDEO: Rep. Jimmy Gomez Delivers Air Purifiers to Small Businesses Impacted by Lineage Logistics Fire

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Watch Rep. Gomez's video here

LOS ANGELES, CA – Today, U.S. Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) delivered air purifiers to a small business impacted by the Lineage Logistics fire in Boyle Heights. Many restaurant owners and employees have been unable to leave work during business hours to pick up air purifiers, prompting Rep. Gomez and his team to bring the equipment directly to them.

"These small businesses are the heart of Boyle Heights and East LA," said Rep. Jimmy Gomez. "They've been showing up for our community every day, even while dealing with smoke, poor air quality, and fewer customers. Some owners simply can't close their doors long enough to pick up an air purifier, so we brought the help directly to them. If you're able, grab a meal, shop local, and support these businesses while they recover. We'll get through this together."

Since the fire began, Rep. Gomez's office has partnered with Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez's office and local community organizations to distribute more than 1,000 air purifiers and thousands of masks throughout Boyle Heights and East Los Angeles. The effort has prioritized seniors, children, people with respiratory conditions, families living near the fire, and small businesses whose workers continue serving the community despite ongoing smoke impacts.

Rep. Gomez also thanked the many community organizations and volunteers who have helped coordinate deliveries, distribute supplies, and ensure residents receive the support they need.

###

VIDEO: Team Gomez and Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez’s Office Deliver Air Purifiers and Essential Supplies to Families Impacted by the Lineage Logistics Fire

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Watch Team Gomez's video here

LOS ANGELES, CA – As families in Boyle Heights and East Los Angeles continue to deal with the lingering impacts of the Lineage Logistics Fire, the offices of U.S. Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) and Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez remained on the ground delivering air purifiers, N95 masks, bottled water, and other essential supplies to residents living closest to the fire zone.

In a new video, Rep. Gomez's District Director, Ivette Aragon, and Assemblymember Gonzalez's District Director, Sebastian Lozano, highlighted their joint efforts to respond directly to constituent requests for assistance and deliver critical resources to households still coping with hazardous air quality.

Since the fire began, Team Gomez has worked in partnership with Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez's office, local organizations, and community partners to connect residents with essential resources, respond to constituent requests, and ensure impacted families receive the support they need as recovery continues. Residents in need of assistance are encouraged to contact Rep. Gomez's district office or Assemblymember Gonzalez's office for help accessing available resources.

###

Congressman Jimmy Gomez Condemns Supreme Court Decision Allowing Trump to End TPS for Haitians and Syrians

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) issued the following statement following the Supreme Court decision to allow the Trump administration to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitians and Syrians.

"Today’s Supreme Court decision makes one thing painfully clear: Trump is taking legal status away from immigrants who already have it.

"TPS holders followed the law. They registered with the government, passed background checks, worked, paid taxes, raised families and built lives here. Now Haitian and Syrian TPS holders could be forced back into danger, and every other TPS holder is watching, wondering if they are next.

"DACA recipients know this fear too. Backlogs, court fights, delays and uncertainty are all part of the same strategy: make people’s legal status unstable, then use that instability against them. This hurts families. It hurts our communities. It hurts our economy.

"As the son of immigrants, I know what that fear does to a family. And our communities are not going to let this administration normalize ripping legal status away from people who did everything this country asked them to do."