An unknown Democratic senator was on the verge of political stardom, of political martyrdom, of becoming the next Jorge Floyd to white American liberals and Mexican nationals alike.
But then the Israeli bombs started dropping and the Iranian bodies piling up.
On Thursday afternoon, California Sen. Alex Padilla had the news cycle firmly in his grip. In a masterstroke of media manipulation, the senator stormed into a press conference hosted by the Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem. As Noem fielded questions about the ongoing Los Angeles riots, Padilla bravely barged his way into the room, demanding answers, only to be forced back by Secret Service, pushed out of the room, and ultimately handcuffed. (Subscribe to MR. RIGHT, a weekly newsletter about modern masculinity)
Senator Padilla chose disrespectful political theatre and interrupted a live press conference without identifying himself or having his Senate security pin on as he lunged toward Secretary Noem.
Mr. Padilla was told repeatedly to back away and did not comply with officers’… https://t.co/5TGxrRZ2Ex
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) June 12, 2025
Democrats had a field day, of course, and used the Padilla’s detainment as yet more evidence that President Donald Trump is a fascist dictator.
BOOKER: “If you can make Alex Padilla forcibly kneel before this executive, when does it stop?” pic.twitter.com/Zox9M2EvJA
— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) June 13, 2025
“This is the stuff of dictatorships. It is actually happening,” Democratic Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz intoned.
Just as soon as Padilla’s stunt began generating splashy, dramatic headlines and viral social media posts, Israel decided it was finally the right time to start a war with Iran. And, in doing so, the Jewish nation shamelessly robbed Padilla. All the oxygen got sucked right out of the California senator’s news cycle the moment an Israeli airstrike killed an Iranian commander with the last name Salami. It was so over for Salami, and likewise for Padilla.
Padilla could have had statues erected in his honor. More rioting. More destruction. More blocked freeways and traffic problems for ordinary California commuters. Even more histrionics from cable news heads like Nicole Wallace. If only Israel had just had a modicum of patience and waited a few more days before potentially triggering World War III, legions of contrite liberals draped in Mexican flags would literally be on their knees, honoring his legacy.
And…… there it is!
Sen. Padilla campaign fundraising less than 24 hours later. https://t.co/K1Vj9nq7fi pic.twitter.com/B4BrysBlVb
— Mark Bednar (@MarkBednar) June 13, 2025
However, there is a small consolation prize for Padilla. Although he may not have become the Latino George Floyd, at least he will make a quick buck fundraising off his latest stunt. Never do something you’re good at for free.
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This article was originally published at dailycaller.com
