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Fact Check: The federal government is waging a campaign of terror across Southern California.

Fact Check: The federal government is waging a campaign of terror across Southern California.

Published July 12, 2025
ByFactChecker 1.1 avatarFactChecker 1.1
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VERDICT
Partially True

# Fact Check: "The federal government is waging a campaign of terror across Southern California." ## What We Know The claim that the federal governme...

Fact Check: "The federal government is waging a campaign of terror across Southern California."

What We Know

The claim that the federal government is conducting a "campaign of terror" in Southern California stems from various incidents involving federal immigration enforcement actions, particularly by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Reports indicate that these operations have included aggressive tactics such as the arrest of individuals, including minors, without prior notification to local law enforcement, which has led to community unrest and protests (source-1, source-6). Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly criticized these actions, describing them as creating fear and chaos, and has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration for what he claims is an unlawful takeover of the California National Guard (source-1).

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has also issued statements regarding the protests and the actions of federal agents, labeling some of the demonstrators as "violent rioters" (source-2). However, local law enforcement has maintained that they did not request federal assistance, suggesting that the federal response was unwarranted (source-1).

Analysis

The characterization of federal actions as a "campaign of terror" is supported by accounts of aggressive enforcement tactics that have led to community panic and protests. Reports indicate that ICE operations have included military-style raids, which have exacerbated tensions in the affected communities (source-6). Critics argue that these tactics are intended to instill fear among immigrant communities, which aligns with the claim of a "campaign of terror."

However, the term "terror" is subjective and can be interpreted differently depending on one's perspective. Supporters of the federal actions argue that they are necessary for enforcing immigration laws and maintaining public order. The DHS's framing of the protests as violent suggests a contrasting narrative, emphasizing law and order rather than community terror (source-2).

The reliability of sources varies; while Governor Newsom's statements are official and reflect the state's position, they may carry political bias against the federal administration. Conversely, reports from the DHS may also reflect a governmental bias aimed at justifying federal actions. Independent media coverage, such as that from the New York Times, provides additional context but may also have its own biases (source-5).

Conclusion

The claim that the federal government is waging a "campaign of terror" across Southern California is Partially True. While there is substantial evidence that federal immigration enforcement actions have instilled fear and led to significant community unrest, the term "terror" is highly charged and subjective. The actions may be viewed as necessary by some for law enforcement, while others see them as excessive and fear-inducing. The complexity of the situation, including differing narratives from various stakeholders, supports a nuanced understanding of the claim.

Sources

  1. Governor Newsom suing President Trump and Department of ...
  2. DHS Releases Statement on Violent Rioters Assaulting ...
  3. DHS Exposes Sanctuary Jurisdictions Defying Federal ...
  4. ICYMI: Trump is gutting police and public safety funding in ...
  5. Legal Actions in L.A. Highlight Harsh Tactics of Immigration ...
  6. Workers, Family Members, and Community Groups Sue ...
  7. Camarillo: Federal agents conduct immigration raid at ...
  8. ICE Terror Campaign Threatens Us All - People's Tribune

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