The Trump administration is poised to send more than 100 federal agents to the San Francisco Bay Area for a major immigration enforcement operation, sparking condemnation from state and local leaders.
The agents are reportedly set to begin operations from the US Coast Guard base in Alameda, across the bay from San Francisco. It remains unclear whether national guard troops will also be involved.
California Governor Gavin Newsom denounced the move as 'right out of the dictator’s handbook', accusing the president of creating fear in communities. State Assembly member Mia Bonta called it 'authoritarian theatrics' and said it violated local values.
San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie said the city had been preparing for months and had taken executive actions to support immigrant communities. He emphasised that city departments were coordinated ahead of any federal deployment.
Legal challenges are anticipated, and community groups like Bay Resistance have mobilised for rallies and vigils. The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights has issued guidelines reminding residents of their right to remain silent and to consult an attorney before signing any papers.
