Trump Deploys National Guard to Los Angeles

Tensions escalated in Los Angeles as President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to quell “lawlessness” in the area, following two days of unrest sparked by a crackdown on undocumented migrants. California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the move, calling it “purposefully inflammatory” and warning it would “only escalate tensions”.

The National Guard troops, including members of the 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, were seen staging at the federal complex in downtown Los Angeles, equipped with long guns and an armored vehicle. This deployment comes after federal agents shot flash-bang grenades and tear gas towards crowds angry at the arrests of dozens of migrants.

The recent immigration enforcement raids resulted in the arrest of 118 undocumented migrants, including five gang members. The White House defended the deployment, stating, “The Trump Administration has a zero-tolerance policy for criminal behavior and violence.” Governor Newsom, however, believes the move is a spectacle, urging peaceful protest instead.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that active-duty Marines from Camp Pendleton might be mobilized if violence continues. Law professor Jessica Levinson noted that the National Guard’s role would likely be limited to logistical and personnel support. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called for peaceful protest, stating, “Everyone has the right to peacefully protest, but violence and destruction are unacceptable.”

The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation. The White House has taken a hard line against the protests, with Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller calling them “an insurrection against the laws and sovereignty of the United States”.