California Cannabis Co-Founder Donates to Local Democrats Amid Immigration Raid Controversy

The co-founder of a major cannabis farm, linked to allegations of exploiting migrant minors and facing federal scrutiny, has donated thousands of dollars to California politicians, including Governor Gavin Newsom. Records show Graham Farra, president and co-founder of Glass House Farms in Ventura County, has contributed to Democratic causes and candidates, notably giving $10,000 to Newsom in 2018.

Glass House Farms, once praised for sustainable and environmentally friendly cultivation methods, was the site of a significant raid last Thursday. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained 361 undocumented farm workers, including 14 minors—eight of whom were unaccompanied—and faced violent protests. One worker died after falling from a greenhouse during the confrontation.

Amidst the controversy, records reveal Farra publicly posted that the farm’s focus remains “taking care of our people and our plants,” a statement deleted later. The company, part of Glass House Brands—which held a market valuation of $300 million last year—asserts it has never knowingly employed minors or violated labor laws. However, federal authorities describe the conditions for children as “exploitation,” citing forced labor, human trafficking concerns, and violence faced by minors on the farms.

Among those arrested was Juan Duarte-Velasquez, an illegal immigrant with prior convictions for rape and DUI, raising additional concerns over legal and ethical practices at the farm.

Farra’s political donations and the farm’s past claims of ethical practices have come under scrutiny: critics question whether the company’s environmental messaging aligns with its labor record. Attempts to obtain comments from Farra or Glass House Brands have been unsuccessful so far.

Governor Newsom responded to the donation controversy by criticizing coverage from Fox News, noting its political ties and support for Trump. “It’s rich for Fox News and the Trump Admin to highlight campaign donations to Democrats,” Newsom wrote on social media, emphasizing the broader political context surrounding the allegations.