LOS ANGELES (AP) — The leader of a significant labor union in Southern California, David Huerta, has made headlines after pleading not guilty to a misdemeanor charge stemming from his arrest while protesting during an immigration raid earlier this year. The arrest occurred on June 6 outside a business in Los Angeles, where federal agents were investigating suspected immigration violations.
As president of the Service Employees International Union California, Huerta initially faced more severe charges for obstructing federal officers, which were later dismissed by prosecutors. He now only faces misdemeanor charges for obstructing justice.
During the protest that led to his arrest, Huerta was reported to have sat in front of a gate, urging demonstrators to impede law enforcement efforts. Following instructions to disperse, he resisted, which led to his arrest by an officer who pushed him to the ground.
The high-profile case has drawn attention from immigrant advocacy groups, who view Huerta's arrest as a symbol of larger immigration issues in the U.S. His union represents hundreds of thousands of workers, including janitors and security personnel across California.
The trial is set for January 20, 2026, with Huerta's legal representatives expressing their intent to expedite the proceedings to clear his name.
Huerta's case has galvanized calls for immigration reform and has become emblematic of the struggles faced by immigrant communities under current U.S. immigration policies. With the ongoing scrutiny of the administration's immigration approach, Huerta's situation continues to be a focal point in discussions about workers' rights and immigration issues.
