Troops at MacArthur Park in L. A.

I agree with Mayor Karen Bass, who said Tuesday, “What I saw in the park today looks like a city under siege, under armed occupation.” This is one of a number of brash exercises to intimidate and put fear in the American public. Putting masks on ICE agents is another. These are dark and uncertain times. It’s my hope that continuing events like this will lead to the end of Republican control in Congress after midterm elections.

— Richie Locasso, Hemet

Masked ICE agents

Re “Debate heats up over bills to unmask ICE officers” (July 6):

I support the idea of having ICE agents wear identifying information. However, dictating that these same ICE officers not wear face masks is overreaching. Why is it necessary to know who these officers are personally rather than simply knowing they are ICE agents doing their job? Why are legislators so anxious and driven to unmask ICE officers but are complacent and apathetic when it comes to protesters wearing masks, which hide their identities? Why aren’t these same legislators upset with and taking action against all the protesters throwing projectiles at officers, vandalizing and burglarizing businesses, destroying property, interfering with the ICE agents doing their lawful job, etc.? Instead, these same legislators are going after law enforcement just because they are doing their job, which is upsetting their constituents, and their actions do not align with their agenda. I thought our elected officials were supposed to uphold the law and not support breaking it. Remember the actions of these elected officials come November. Get out and vote!

— Scott Irwin, Fullerton

ICE raids

Re: Community mourns ICE raids through ‘defiant, healing’ art” (July 4):

Joe Biden gave us chaos at the border, but Donald Trump brings the madness to farms, small businesses and communities everywhere. He promised only to deport criminals, but pulled a bait and switch, defining anyone undocumented as an outlaw. A climate of fear keeps many from churches and their jobs, and these are hardworking people who just desire to pray and to work. Protesters do so with a sense of futility, but must act anyway. Can’t the president see the real human beings in the ICE raids? Does he only count the numbers?

— Larry Walker, Woodland Hills