OPINION:
Sen. Alex Padilla, California Democrat, made a complete fool of himself last Thursday with his childish stunt during Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s press briefing (“WATCH: Sen. Padilla forcibly ejected from DHS secretary’s press conference,” Web, June 12).
Mr. Padilla was an embarrassment to himself and his office. This shouldn’t be necessary, but I would like to remind him that he was elected to represent the citizens who live in California, not the non-citizens who are in our country illegally. Our law enforcement agencies are trying to uphold the rule of law and enforce the law equally for everyone. That is the bedrock principle of our justice system and it’s worked well for almost 250 years.
As a lawmaker, the senator should be supporting the enforcement of our laws unconditionally, not be trying to make exceptions for any person or group of people. If he cannot support our justice system and the equal application of the law, he no longer deserves to represent the people of California and should resign immediately to save himself and all Californians further embarrassment.
Mr. Padilla should also take a little time to carefully read Title 8, U.S.C. § 1324(a), which prescribes felony prosecution and penalties for anyone aiding and abetting aiding illegal aliens entering our country, as well as the penalties for helping them stay here. That is the law of the land and nobody, including Sen. Padilla, is above the law.
WILBUR W. WELLS
Tehachapi, California
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