The chaos in Los Angeles due to immigration issues has turned the city into a case study of urban governance failure.

At a Glance

• A Los Angeles nonprofit pays illegal immigrants to avoid ICE.
• Businesses have closed due to ICE raids, affecting illegal workers.
• Left-wing groups hand out “F–k ICE” protective gear to protesters.
• California faces backlash over potential free rent for illegal immigrants.

Nonprofit Encouragements

In Los Angeles, a nonprofit is literally paying undocumented immigrants to remain hidden from ICE raids. The Local Hearts Foundation and K-Town For All are spearheading this move, providing financial support aimed at keeping these individuals out of ICE’s reach. Meanwhile, car washes and other businesses employing illegal workers have shuttered as a result of ramped-up ICE activities. Such measures seem less about protecting workers and more about enabling a perpetual cycle of illegality.

Street vendors—often operating without permits—are also cashing in from these initiatives. Paid to remain out of sight, they sidestep the core issues of legality and taxation that burden every American business owner. What’s next—tax rebates for those who dodge taxes entirely?

Assertive Union Demands

The LA Tenants Union amplifies the chorus of demands, clamoring for free housing for undocumented individuals. “We know that many tenants will not be able to pay their rent come July 1,” warns Kenia Alcocer, showing a glaring disconnect from the reality most taxpayers face. Such an approach glosses over the burdens felt by legal residents struggling against a backdrop of economic instability caused by generous, unchecked policies.

“We know that many tenants will not be able to pay their rent come July 1. Why? Because this militarization of our communities, this occupation of our community, this terrorizing of our communities have closed down businesses, have taken away street vendors, have separated families — and then people cannot pay their rent. They have barely the minimum to survive.” – Kenia Alcocer

Protests and Anarchy

In a bizarre twist, the vice mayor of Cudahy, LA County, openly urged gang members to oppose ICE, fanning the flames of an already volatile situation. Meanwhile, left-wing groups are fueling mass protests by distributing “F–k ICE” protective kits. The emerging chaos saw LA erupt into scenes resembling a war zone, as rioters helped an illegal immigrant escape ICE custody.

“The immigrant community is important. And they are vulnerable. [ICE] say, ‘We want to get rid of the criminals.’ Then where are they going? To churches, to schools. They’re targeting people who can’t protect themselves.” – Pamela Miller

The strain on local police proved immense. Anarchist pamphlets even appeared at distribution locations, inciting violence against law enforcement. Worryingly, the LA Poverty Department has been cited as making facilities available for these preparations, highlighting a total collapse of civic responsibility.