Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass found herself at the center of an online firestorm, facing accusations of racism after her comments regarding the notable increase in Latino recruits joining the U.S. Border Patrol. The mayor’s remarks came during an interview with Wolf Blitzer on CNN’s ‘The Situation Room,’ where she expressed her concerns about this trend.

Bass sparked controversy by describing the surge in Latino participation as “sad.” This comment drew significant backlash on social media, with critics labeling her as ‘racist’ and a ‘hypocrite’ for seemingly being ‘disappointed in diversity.’

During the interview, Blitzer asked Bass about an internal report from a border patrol academy, highlighting the record numbers of Latino recruits enlisting with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The mayor’s response was seen by many as controversial.

“Well, in a way, I think it’s sad,” Bass stated. “I think that those Border Patrol agents are going to have a difficult time when they’re out in the field, and they see what actually happens in real life separate from their training.”

Mayor Bass suggested that financial necessity might be a driving factor for many of these recruits, pointing to the broader economic struggles facing millions of Americans. Yet, the same report she referenced featured several Latino trainees who explained their motivations, which were not solely financial.

The debate surrounding Bass’s comments continues to unfold, as discussions about diversity and economic opportunity remain at the forefront of national discourse.

During the investigation in the facility, CNN correspondent David Culver interviewed two Latino border patrol agents about why they joined the agency and the criticism they face from other Latinos.

Mayor Karen Bass joined Wolf Blitzer Friday for an interview on ‘ The Situation Room,’ where she expressed her sadness after watching a report which showed many Latinos joining the CBP

Bass believes that Latinos are joining due to a financial primary incentive

Border Patrol Agent Claudio Herrera proudly told Culver why he joined: ‘I’m protecting my community. I’m protecting both sides of the border.’

It took Claudio 11 years to become a citizen, and he advised immigrants to follow the legal process, or they will only ‘find jail or only find death.’

Juan Peralta, 20, and the son of an immigrant, also told the outlet that many are surprised that he is joining the agency so young and asked him how he feels about ‘arresting your own kind.’

Peralta explained, ‘They didn’t come in the right way. So, they aren’t my kind.’

Over half of the agents serving on the southern border are Hispanic, and applications are higher than 70 percent from one year ago, according to the CBP.

The findings left the mayor disappointed as she added: ‘I definitely am concerned about that report.’

New Border Patrol Agents are eligible for up to $60,000, as well as $10,000 after completing the academy and an additional $10,000 if assigned to a remote location

After watching the report Blitzer asked the mayor her thoughts to which she replied: ‘Well, in a way, I think it’s sad’

The mayor’s criticism was not well received by droves of social media users, who took to several platforms to express their outrage at her reaction.

One person said: ‘Karen Bass idiot mayor who lied about everything concerning the FIRES is now upset at DIVERSITY?’

Another wrote: ‘Karen Bass is a hypocrite and racist.’

A third added: ‘I’ve known Hispanics whose families waited and immigrated legally. They’re against illegal immigration. Karen Bass really is detached from reality.’

New Border Patrol Agents are eligible for up to $60,000 in incentives, according to the CBP.

New agents receive $10,000 after completing the academy and an additional $10,000 if assigned to a remote location.

‘CBP is committed to recruiting and retaining top talent for our critical mission,’ said CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott.

‘By offering competitive incentives, we are investing in skilled professionals who will help secure America’s borders and advance national security.’