On a recent Friday, a confrontation occurred involving Arizona Representative Adelita Grijalva and federal immigration agents in Tucson. Grijalva reported that ICE agents used pepper spray and other munitions during a protest outside Taco Giro, a local restaurant.
Incident Overview
Video evidence shared by Grijalva documented the encounter where agents in tactical gear pepper-sprayed a crowd, including herself. In her online posts, Grijalva described feeling targeted, stating, “I was sprayed in the face by a very aggressive agent.”
DHS Response
Tricia McLaughlin, an assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), disputed Grijalva’s account. McLaughlin claimed that Grijalva was adjacent to someone who was sprayed but denied she was directly affected, saying, “If her claims were true, this would be a medical marvel.”
Context of the Confrontation
- Approximately 40 agents were deployed, part of ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations.
- Agents reportedly used flash-bang grenades, tear gas, and pepper balls on protesters.
- The Tucson Sentinel indicated the operation was related to a human trafficking probe initiated during the Biden administration.
Protesters surrounded the agents’ vehicles for about an hour, blocking their exit. McLaughlin claimed that two law enforcement officers were injured during the incident, but did not provide evidence for this assertion.
Statements from Lawmakers
Senator Ruben Gallego expressed concern over the situation, stating that pepper-spraying a sitting member of Congress is “disgraceful.” He highlighted Grijalva’s role in advocating for her community during the heated exchange.
Escalating Tensions
Additional footage showed Grijalva confronting heavily armed agents as they arrested individuals with zip ties. She identified herself as a congresswoman and sought information about the detainees. The agents, however, were often dismissive and confrontational.
Grijalva characterized the event as indicative of a larger pattern of aggressive enforcement by federal agencies, particularly during the Trump administration. She criticized the lack of accountability and due process, saying, “They’re literally disappearing people from the streets.”
Background on Adelita Grijalva
This incident follows a turbulent year for Grijalva, who was elected to represent Arizona’s 7th Congressional District earlier in 2025. She succeeded her father, Raúl Grijalva, a prominent progressive leader in Tucson.
The younger Grijalva’s swearing-in was delayed for nearly two months due to a government shutdown. Since taking office, she has been active in proposing legislation, including a signature on a petition related to files on Jeffrey Epstein.
This clash highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the United States. The consequences of federal actions resonate deeply within local communities, especially concerning the treatment of immigrants and activists.
