California Governor Gavin Newsom has made explosive claims about a private phone conversation with former President Donald Trump, alleging that Trump joked about launching Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles.
Newsom, a prominent Democrat, revealed the details during a recent interview, stating that Trump made the remark in a light-hearted manner. The governor did not specify when the call took place but suggested it occurred during Trump's presidency.
A Controversial Exchange
According to Newsom, Trump's alleged comment came as the two discussed immigration policies. "He made a joke about sending ICE to Los Angeles," Newsom claimed. "It was one of those moments where you're not sure if he's serious or not."
The revelation has reignited debates about Trump's hardline stance on immigration during his administration. ICE raids became a contentious issue, particularly in sanctuary cities like Los Angeles that limited cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
Political Fallout
Newsom's disclosure comes at a sensitive time in US politics, with immigration remaining a hot-button issue ahead of the next presidential election. Critics of Trump have seized on the alleged remark as evidence of what they call his insensitive approach to immigration enforcement.
Supporters of the former president have dismissed Newsom's account, questioning the timing and veracity of the claim. Trump himself has not publicly responded to the governor's allegations.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between California's Democratic leadership and Republican immigration policies, a divide that has only grown wider in recent years.
