Tensions rose sharply in Los Angeles after 2,000 National Guard troops were deployed to suppress protests against immigration raids carried out by President Donald Trump’s administration. The demonstrations began when ICE initiated operations in the city on Friday, leading to violent confrontations.
Trump branded the protests as “riots” and vowed in a fiery statement: “If people spit, we hit. We will deploy soldiers everywhere. We will not allow our country to be torn apart like under Biden.” He also claimed to have ordered National Guard units to act—even without California’s approval—since Governor Gavin Newsom had declined to authorize state forces.
The deployment quickly turned confrontational: National Guard troops used rubber bullets and tear gas, while protesters responded with burning vehicles and makeshift barricades. Several sections of the 101 Freeway were blocked in both directions, significantly disrupting traffic.
California Gov. Newsom: deploying 2,000 National Guard troops in LA without state approval is “purposefully inflammatory” and unnecessary.
— Reuters (@Reuters) June 9, 2025
Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the move as “unlawful” and accused Trump of creating a crisis for political theater, announcing plans for legal action against the federal intervention. Reported clashes involved police declaring downtown an “unlawful assembly,” making numerous arrests—including firebombed Waymo cars and burned vehicles.
Mayor Karen Bass criticized the deployment as unnecessary: “This is deliberate chaos. LAPD can handle the situation—we do not need federal troops,” she stated, calling the presence of military forces “provocation.”
Protesters—many carrying Mexican flags—gathered at multiple locations, including the Paramount area and federal buildings. The tension escalated further with at least 44 arrests — some using flash-bangs, tear gas, and pepper spray.
Legal experts say the use of Title 10 to federalize the California Guard without gubernatorial consent is unprecedented in over 60 years, triggering renewed debate about the limits of presidential authority.
According to Reuters, agencies are on high alert: Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton stand ready if violence escalates.
Critics argue that the military presence is excessive and risks inflaming an already volatile situation. Local leaders have urged peaceful protest, but President Trump remains defiant: “We won’t let thugs spit on our police or troops,” he pledged, framing it as a fight to maintain order.
Amid the showdown, the broader debate continues: Is this a necessary response to lawlessness, or a dangerous overstep that threatens state sovereignty and civil trust?
For comprehensive coverage, check out the full Reuters report: Trump deploys National Guard as Los Angeles protests continue.