Arizona Senate Republicans Condemn Outrageous Anti-ICE Violence

By Matthew Holloway |

Arizona’s Republican Senate leadership strongly condemned the ongoing violent anti-immigration riots in Los Angeles in a press release issued on Monday. They called on Governor Katie Hobbs and Attorney General Kris Mayes to collaborate with the Trump Administration to enforce federal immigration laws, ensuring the safety of Arizona communities.

In related news, an anti-ICE protest occurred in Phoenix near the Capitol building. While some protesters expressed support for the LA riots, the gathering remained mostly peaceful, according to Fox10 Phoenix.

Senate President Warren Petersen criticized the situation in California, labeling it as an “atrocity.” He stated, “These are not protests. These are violent riots carried out by criminal thugs with no regard for public safety.” He urged the Hobbs Administration and Attorney General Mayes to prepare for possible escalation in Arizona and fulfill their oaths by cooperating with federal officials on immigration enforcement and holding violators accountable if disturbances arise.

President Pro Tempore T.J. Shope echoed Petersen’s sentiments, expressing outrage over Governor Hobbs’ support for a letter opposing President Trump’s deployment of the National Guard to counteract violence. “It’s not ‘an alarming abuse of power’ for a president to take this action to stop violent rioters,” he stated.

Senate Majority Whip Frank Carroll remarked on the chaos in California, expressing gratitude for the National Guard and Marines’ presence to restore order. He emphasized the need for accountability against anyone who harms citizens or law enforcement.

The Phoenix Police Department reported on the peaceful protest, stating, “Our duty continues to be ensuring the safety of all involved while treating everyone with dignity and respect.” They noted that the group marched without major incident, assisted by law enforcement to maintain safety.

The riots in Los Angeles began near an ICE detention center and have since intensified, causing injuries to law enforcement personnel and property damage. As unrest escalated, the National Guard’s deployment grew to 4,000, alongside 700 Marines from Camp Pendleton, despite opposition from Governor Gavin Newsom and other Democratic officials.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for updates or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.