Nationwide Protests Against ICE Spark Clashes and Celebrity Involvement

Nationwide protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) erupted on January 30, 2026, culminating in significant demonstrations in Los Angeles. The protests were organized in response to the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents during immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota. The "ICE Out of Everywhere" rally in Los Angeles began peacefully outside City Hall but escalated into confrontations with law enforcement as night fell.

Dozens arrested after demonstrators face off with police in downtown LA after anti-ICE protest

The Los Angeles protests saw hundreds of activists marching through the streets, holding signs demanding an end to ICE's activities. As tensions rose, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) declared a tactical alert and issued dispersal orders. Protesters clashed with federal agents outside the Metropolitan Detention Center, where some demonstrators reportedly threw objects, prompting law enforcement to deploy tear gas and other crowd control measures. Over the course of the weekend, nearly 60 protesters were arrested, with charges ranging from failure to disperse to assault on police officers.

Dozens more arrested during anti-ICE protests in Los AngelesPhotos: Anti-ICE protests gets heated on ‘National Shutdown’ dayDozens arrested after demonstrators face off with police in downtown LA after anti-ICE protestLAPD says more than 50 people detained during protests against ICE tacticsICE protestors in Los Angeles march and clash with federal agents

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel participated in the protests, sharing images on social media of himself and his family holding anti-ICE signs. Kimmel's son held a sign reading "Paid Agitator," a phrase used by President Donald Trump to dismiss protesters. Kimmel has been vocal against the Trump administration's immigration policies, expressing outrage over the treatment of individuals during ICE operations. He described the federal agents involved in the shootings as "goons" committing "vile, heartless, even criminal acts."

Jimmy Kimmel attends Los Angeles anti-ICE protest with wife and childrenJimmy Kimmel Embraces ‘Paid Agitator’ Label at ICE Protest, Schooling Trump On ‘Patriotic Americans’LAPD says more than 50 people detained during protests against ICE tacticsDon Lemon defends his reporting of anti-ICE protest in Minnesota during interview with Jimmy KimmelDozens more arrested during anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles

President Donald Trump responded to the protests by stating that the federal government would not assist cities with ongoing anti-immigration enforcement unless requested. He emphasized the need for federal protection of government property and warned against violence towards law enforcement. In contrast, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass urged for peaceful protests, cautioning that violence would invite a stronger federal presence.

Dozens more arrested during anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles

Critics of the protests, including Trump administration officials, have defended the actions of federal agents, asserting that they were necessary to uphold the law. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that those involved in the protests violated the First Amendment rights of worshippers at a church where a protest occurred, leading to arrests of journalists and activists alike. First Amendment advocates have condemned the arrests, arguing they threaten press freedom.

Don Lemon defends his reporting of anti-ICE protest in Minnesota during interview with Jimmy Kimmel

Discrepancies exist regarding the number of arrests and the nature of the protests. While some reports indicate that the protests began peacefully, others highlight the violent clashes that ensued, leading to a significant police response. The exact circumstances surrounding the arrests and the actions taken by both protesters and law enforcement remain under scrutiny.

Dozens more arrested during anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles

The protests are part of a broader movement calling for the defunding of ICE, with organizers planning further demonstrations. Archbishop Jose H. Gomez has designated a "Day of Prayer for Peace" in response to the ongoing tensions, indicating that community leaders are seeking to address the issues surrounding immigration enforcement and its impact on families.

Dozens more arrested during anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles

• “We were proud to see so many paid agitators (AKA patriotic Americans) marching en masse for the ICE OUT rally in the South Bay today. Keep it going!” — Jimmy Kimmel, Late-night Host

Jimmy Kimmel attends Los Angeles anti-ICE protest with wife and children

• “These people committed a crime under the FACE Act and they will be held accountable.” — Pam Bondi, U.S. Attorney General

Don Lemon defends his reporting of anti-ICE protest in Minnesota during interview with Jimmy Kimmel

• “I think the protests are extremely important, but it is equally important for these protests to be peaceful, for vandalism not to take place,” — Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles

Dozens more arrested during anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles

• “The violence and destruction of property directed at our federal properties in downtown Los Angeles last night is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.” — Bill Essayli, First Assistant U.S. Attorney

Dozens more arrested during anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles