Bulwark Takes Raja to Trump: Stop Building Ballrooms and Reopen the Government!
Oct 30, 2025
In this discussion, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, representing Illinois' 8th District, dives into critical issues like rogue ICE operations and the harmful impacts of the government shutdown on constituents. He sheds light on the racism fueled by far-right comments and outlines the instability in U.S.–China relations. Krishnamoorthi calls for a focus on bipartisan solutions, sharing strange alliances, and urges a shift from building luxuries to reopening the government for the American people.
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ICE Use Of Force In Illinois
- Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi described ICE agents snatching an 18-year-old U.S. citizen, pinning her with a knee to the neck, then detaining her for hours before release.
- He said similar excessive-force incidents and tear gas near children have occurred across his district, prompting court oversight demands.
Denied Inspections And Opaque Transfers
- Raja recounted being refused an unannounced inspection at the Broadview detention facility despite statutory authority to inspect.
- He also described constituent cases where ICE would confirm medication but refuse to disclose detention transfer locations.
Oversight Tools Against DHS Abuses
- Raja plans to subpoena Gov. Kristi Noem to testify before the Oversight Committee to force answers under oath.
- He argues litigation, public pressure, and GOP colleagues' demands are needed to check DHS actions.