In a fiery response to Vice President JD Vance’s controversial visit to Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass unleashed a blistering critique, declaring, “How dare you!” The mayor’s remarks come amid escalating tensions in the city, which has been grappling with fear and uncertainty following recent anti-ICE demonstrations.
Speaking from her office, Bass condemned Vance’s accusations that local leaders were inciting violence, labeling them as “lies and utter nonsense.” She described the current atmosphere in Los Angeles as one of terror, with businesses suffering and families left in anguish. “I met with mothers who don’t know where their husbands are,” she revealed, highlighting the human toll of the unrest.
The mayor’s strong words were directed not only at Vance but also at the federal government’s handling of the situation, which she characterized as a “provocation” that has disrupted the lives of millions of Angelenos. She emphasized that Los Angeles is a city built on diversity and resilience, and criticized the vice president for failing to understand its complexities. “You parachute in and pass judgment,” she said, accusing Vance of disrespecting local leadership and the community.
Bass also addressed the presence of armed federal agents in the city, questioning their motives and identity. “Are they bounty hunters? Are they vigilantes?” she asked, underscoring the confusion and fear that has gripped residents. Despite the chaos, she asserted that local law enforcement has effectively managed the situation, dismissing the need for federal intervention.
As tensions simmer, Bass called for unity among Angelenos, urging them to support local businesses and stand together against the division being sown from Washington. “Our city is standing together,” she declared, rallying the community in the face of adversity. The mayor’s passionate address underscores a pivotal moment in Los Angeles, as residents navigate the challenges posed by both local unrest and federal involvement.