Senator Alex Padilla criticized the Trump administration for being 'petty and unserious' after Vice President JD Vance mistakenly referred to him as 'Jose' during a recent news conference in Los Angeles. Padilla emphasized that Vance knows his name, dismissing the misnaming as a reflection of the administration's priorities. The incident occurred amidst ongoing federal immigration raids causing unrest in Los Angeles and surrounding areas.

Vance's visit to Los Angeles sparked protests and backlash from state and local officials following weeks of immigration enforcement actions. Padilla, California's first Latino senator, was recently detained by federal law enforcement officers during a news conference with U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, further entangling him in the immigration debate.

During a TV interview, Padilla expressed his frustration with Vance's misnaming, suggesting it was deliberate and indicative of the administration's lack of seriousness. He criticized Vance for not engaging with affected families and employers during his visit, highlighting the importance of addressing the situation in Los Angeles.

California Democrats, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, stood in solidarity with Padilla, condemning Vance's remarks and emphasizing the racial undertones in his comments. Newsom stated that calling Padilla 'Jose' was not accidental, while Bass emphasized Padilla's significance as a senator representing the community.