LOS ANGELES (AP) — The leader of a major labor union in Southern California, David Huerta, has pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge stemming from a protest against an immigration raid. Huerta, who serves as the president of the Service Employees International Union California, was arrested during a demonstration on June 6, 2025, outside a Los Angeles business where federal agents were investigating suspected immigration violations.

Originally charged with a class A felony for obstruction of a federal officer, the serious charge of conspiracy to impede an officer was dismissed last month by federal prosecutors. Now, Huerta's focus is on the misdemeanor charge of obstruction of justice, for which he entered a not guilty plea. His trial is scheduled to begin on January 20, 2026, according to reports from the Los Angeles Times.

During the protest, Huerta's actions included sitting down in front of a vehicular gate and urging fellow demonstrators to encircle the area, attempting to restrict the operations of law enforcement, according to federal court filings.

Following his arrest, Huerta has garnered support from immigrant advocates nationwide, calling for the end of what they perceive as President Trump's stringent immigration policies. His union represents a significant number of workers, including janitors and security officers, across California.

Huerta’s attorneys have expressed their intent to pursue a quick trial in hopes of vindicating him and clarifying the events of the protest.