In a bold move, President Donald Trump has dispatched 2,000 National Guard troops from California to Los Angeles, despite objections from Governor Gavin Newsom. This decision follows a weekend of protests that escalated into confrontations between demonstrators and immigration officials.
The White House justified the deployment, claiming it was necessary to combat the 'lawlessness' that has reportedly taken root in California. Governor Newsom, however, criticized the action as 'purposefully inflammatory,' warning that it would only heighten tensions.
As protests continued into a second day, the atmosphere in Los Angeles became increasingly charged, with tear gas and smoke filling the air as protesters clashed with Border Patrol agents clad in riot gear.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated a readiness to escalate the situation further, suggesting that active-duty Marines from Camp Pendleton could be mobilized if violence persists.
Under Title 10 authority, Trump has federalized part of California's National Guard, placing him in command rather than the Governor, according to Newsom's office.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the actions of immigration authorities are crucial for stopping the influx of illegal immigrants, criticizing California's Democratic leadership for failing to protect its citizens.
Trump's order came shortly after he issued a warning on social media, threatening federal intervention if local leaders did not take action against what he termed 'riots and looters.'
While attending a UFC event in New Jersey, Trump signed the deployment order, prompting Governor Newsom to assert that local law enforcement was adequately equipped to handle the situation without federal assistance.
Newsom expressed concerns that the deployment would undermine public trust and labeled the mission as misguided.
As tensions mounted, Border Patrol agents in riot gear confronted protesters outside an industrial area in Paramount, where demonstrators voiced their opposition to ICE operations. Signs reading 'No Human Being is Illegal' were visible among the crowd.
The California Highway Patrol has been instructed to send additional officers to ensure public safety on state roads.
In 2020, Trump had previously requested National Guard support from various states to manage protests following George Floyd's death, a move that was met with mixed responses from governors.
Despite threats to invoke the Insurrection Act during previous protests, Trump did not take such action during his first term or in this instance.
Recent ICE operations in Los Angeles led to multiple arrests, including individuals linked to criminal organizations, prompting protests outside federal detention centers.
Among those arrested was David Huerta, a union leader, whose detention has drawn criticism from Democratic leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who called for his release.
Mayor Karen Bass condemned the federal actions as an attempt to instill fear in the community, while ICE officials defended their operations, asserting their commitment to enforcing immigration laws.