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Councilman's Social Media Post Ignites Political Controversy in Downey

Downey City Council convenes on September 17th at 4 p.m., set to debate whether to formally reprimand Councilman Mario Trujillo in response to a contentious social media post. The meeting will take place at City Hall's council chambers. Councilman Trujillo, embroiled in a recent scandal, stands...

Councilman's Social Media Post Ignites Political Controversy in Downey
Councilman's Social Media Post Ignites Political Controversy in Downey

Councilman's Social Media Post Ignites Political Controversy in Downey

On September 10, 2025, a controversial Instagram Story was posted by Councilman Mario Trujillo, sparking a wave of criticism and calls for accountability. The post, which read, "No one mourns the wicked," was interpreted by many as a reference to conservative activist Charlie Kirk who was fatally shot on the same day.

Residents and commentators denounced the remark as inappropriate given the circumstances. Following the backlash, Trujillo issued a statement the following day through his official council account, seeking to clarify his stance. In the statement, he condemned any form of violence and stood united in condemning violence regardless of who it targets or where it comes from.

In response to the post, the Downey City Council has scheduled a special meeting on September 17, 2025, at 4 p.m. The meeting, to be held in the council chambers at City Hall, will decide whether Councilman Trujillo should be formally censured. A censure does not carry legal penalties but is considered one of the strongest rebukes a council can deliver to a sitting member.

The controversy comes after the City of Downey implemented a "neutral flag policy" that will ban such displays, including the LGBTQ+ Pride flag. This decision was made during a regular meeting on May 16, 2024, and was met with mean-spirited reactions during the city's regular meeting.

However, it's important to note that the Pride Flag Raising Ceremony, announced by Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn on May 23, 2024, is not a response to any controversy involving Councilman Trujillo or his controversial social media post. The Pride Flag Raising Ceremony will take place at the LA County Office of Education, not on city property, on Monday, May 31, 2024.

The special meeting will be open to the public, and a livestream will be provided on the city's YouTube page. Community members may also submit comments in person or by email prior to the discussion. The City encourages all residents to participate in the democratic process and have their voices heard.

The City of Downey prides itself on being a welcoming and inclusive community. The events of the past few months have tested this commitment, but the City remains committed to fostering a safe and respectful environment for all its residents. The outcome of the special meeting will undoubtedly shape the future of the City Council and the community as a whole.

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