Union Leader David Huerta Released Amid Immigration Raids Protests

LOS ANGELES, California — David Huerta, the president of SEIU California, was released from federal custody on a $50,000 bond on Monday after being arrested during a protest against immigration raids in downtown Los Angeles.

Huerta, 58, was detained Friday while he attempted to document the actions of federal agents who were conducting immigration enforcement. His arrest has sparked widespread protests and calls from union members and Democratic lawmakers for his release.

As Huerta was being released on Monday, thousands of marchers were gathering in downtown Los Angeles after a rally organized by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). The union’s executive director, Tia Orr, expressed concern for Huerta’s well-being, stating he was injured during his arrest and received medical attention while in custody.

“SEIU California members call for the immediate release of our president, David Huerta, who stood up for immigrant workers,” Orr said. “This is about standing up to injustice, regardless of personal risk.”

The protests came after federal agents conducted simultaneous raids in various parts of downtown, capturing people suspected of violating immigration laws. Protesters gathered at the locations of the raids, expressing their outrage and calling for Huerta’s release.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, D-Los Angeles, condemned Huerta’s treatment, stating, “Huerta was Tased and brutalized for attempting to visit his union members, asylum applicants unjustly detained.”

During the rallies, participants held signs with messages such as “Free David Huerta” and “ICE out of LA.” Mayor Karen Bass urged demonstrators to protest peacefully, emphasizing the importance of community unity against perceived injustices.

Federal authorities, however, maintain that Huerta obstructed federal agents attempting to execute a warrant, stating that he blocked their vehicles. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli remarked, “If you impede federal agents, you will be arrested and prosecuted,” defending the legality of the agents’ actions.

California Governor Gavin Newsom described Huerta as a patriot and advocate for working people, stating that no one should face harm for witnessing government actions. He, along with Attorney General Rob Bonta, announced plans to sue the Trump administration regarding the decision to deploy the National Guard in Los Angeles, claiming it infringes on state authority.

“This is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism that threatens the foundation of our republic,” Newsom said.

Huerta is scheduled to face court again at the Roybal Federal Building for a bond hearing. He issued a statement emphasizing that his arrest is part of a broader struggle for justice, asserting that hard-working people in the community are being treated like criminals. “We all have to stand on the right side of justice,” he said.