Lawmakers seek answers on potential use of Travis Air Force Base for detentions

U.S. Representatives John Garamendi and Mike Thompson have sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, expressing concerns over reports that the Trump Administration is considering using Travis Air Force Base as an immigration detention facility. The representatives criticized the proposal, stating it would undermine the base's national security mission.

“It’s outrageous and inappropriate for the Trump Administration to use Travis Air Force Base as an immigration detention facility," they said. "Converting Travis into an immigration facility would undermine its vital national security mission."

The letter highlights previous instances where President Trump's actions allegedly compromised the base's operations, including using military aircraft for transporting undocumented individuals at high costs and attempting to send medical personnel to a proposed migrant camp in Guantanamo Bay.

“We are deeply alarmed by Trump’s blatant abuse of presidential power and his indifference to the rule of law," they added, citing concerns about violations of the Posse Comitatus Act.

The letter is part of ongoing efforts by Garamendi and Thompson to hold the administration accountable for what they see as misuse of military resources in immigration enforcement. Earlier this year, Garamendi sought answers from the Department of Defense on similar issues related to Travis AFB.

In their latest correspondence, they demanded detailed assessments on how turning Travis AFB into a detention site would impact military resources and readiness. They emphasized that such actions could blur legal boundaries set by laws like the Posse Comitatus Act.

The representatives requested responses from the Department of Defense within 30 days on several inquiries regarding infrastructure impacts, resource diversion, expected detainee numbers, reassignment of military personnel, compliance with legal frameworks, and funding sources for any proposed detention center activities.

They urged transparency from Secretary Hegseth on how these plans might affect Travis AFB's operations and called for reconsideration if military readiness or ongoing operations could be compromised.