Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty and Vice Mayor Karina Talamantes were recorded discussing the possibility of barring disruptive activists from future city council meetings. This conversation took place on July 25, 2026, after a city council meeting was interrupted by anti-ICE protesters. The meeting was recessed following multiple disruptions during a debate regarding the city's involvement with the Central California Intelligence Center (CCIC).
During the discussion, Talamantes suggested that if they wanted to ban individuals in the future, they would need to specify the reasons. McCarty responded that the city attorney had indicated that such actions were not permissible. Talamantes noted that they had previously managed to remove disruptive individuals. McCarty expressed his desire to implement a probationary system for disruptive attendees but acknowledged the legal limitations.
The meeting had devolved into shouting matches, with audience members expressing their frustrations over the city's acceptance of federal funding for the intelligence center, which they believe could lead to cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Sacramento police maintain that they comply with California state law and do not share identifying information with federal authorities.
As the meeting continued, council members faced interruptions, leading McCarty to issue a warning that further disruptions would result in the audience being removed. Following the recess, McCarty clarified that the discussion about rules was aimed at maintaining order in council meetings. Both McCarty and Talamantes emphasized their commitment to ensuring transparent and accessible meetings while managing public participation.
The exchange has drawn criticism from activists, including Joshua Masias from the Sac Immigration Committee, who accused Talamantes of attempting to silence political opposition. This incident is part of a broader trend of disruptions at Sacramento City Council meetings by anti-ICE activists.