House Republicans Launch Probe into CHIRLA’s Involvement with Anti-ICE Protests

Are taxpayer dollars fueling unrest in Los Angeles? House Republicans are determined to find out the role of CHIRLA in protests against ICE operations, suspecting misuse of federal grants.

Protests Under Scrutiny

House Republicans are launching a deep investigation into the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA). This probe, spearheaded by Jim Jordan, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, scrutinizes the nonprofit’s alleged involvement in organizing protests against ICE operations in Los Angeles. The central concern is whether nearly $1 million in federal grants were used to support unlawful protests. Even as CHIRLA admits holding a press event against ICE actions, they deny promoting violent protests. The House Judiciary Committee requires CHIRLA to submit financial records to validate compliance with federal fund regulations.

Missouri Republican Senator Josh Hawley is also pressing for a thorough investigation into fund usage by CHIRLA. As chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism, Hawley claims the organization supported disruptive activities during ICE operations. Concurrently, federal officials have arrested SEIU California President David Huerta, linked to CHIRLA, for interfering with federal officers. Angelica Salas, head of CHIRLA, disputes these allegations, emphasizing the organization’s history of peaceful advocacy. Despite pushback from First Amendment advocates, House Republicans have demanded that CHIRLA delivers documentation of their taxpayer-funded grants.

Federal Funds Under Siege

CHIRLA reportedly received $34 million from California taxpayers, raising suspicions over its involvement in potentially illegal activities. As investigations broaden, Bill Essayli, a federal prosecutor, hinted at more probes into union officials and organizers linked to the protests. The House Judiciary Committee’s inquiry also ties into a larger federal investigation targeting 200 NGOs allegedly supporting inadmissible aliens during Biden-Harris administration. These protests against ICE activities have escalated into widespread violence in Los Angeles. This prompted deployment of the National Guard and U.S. Marine troops to restore order.

Several federal charges have been filed following the protest chaos, which saw multiple arrests and imposed curfews. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli highlighted the gravity of assaulting law enforcement, indicating more charges could follow. GOP lawmakers are pushing for transparency regarding funding sources behind the anti-ICE protests. With over $35 million in taxpayer money flowing to CHIRLA from California, accountability for fund usage is paramount. House Republicans are intently seeking answers on the flow of taxpayers’ money to organizations possibly undermining immigration laws.

In Search of Accountability

House Republicans have full throttle in their quest for accountability from CHIRLA. A congressional panel has reportedly requested documentation on how taxpayer dollars were utilized by July 8. Chairman Jim Jordan articulated concerns over CHIRLA possibly using federal funds to back activities obstructing immigration enforcement. Angelica Salas rebuked the investigation, citing it detracts from the administration’s shortcomings. Salas remains resolute, asserting CHIRLA’s role as an advocate for immigrant rights, not as perpetrators of violence.

“This raises concerns that CHIRLA may be using federal funds to support violent criminal activity that impedes the enforcement of federal immigration law.” – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan

The ongoing probe underlines GOP’s push to secure American interests by scrutinizing federal fund allocations related to protests. With escalating tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in Los Angeles, Republican leaders maintain their focus on restoring order and accountability.