Trump deploys 2,000 National Guard members after LA immigration protests
The Trump administration has taken a decisive step by deploying the California National Guard to address the protests in Los Angeles over immigration enforcement operations. The clashes between demonstrators and authorities prompted President Donald Trump to sign a memorandum deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen to address the lawlessness in California.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed concern over the violence in California and criticized the state’s Democrat leaders for not taking responsibility to protect their citizens. The deployment of the National Guard is aimed at addressing the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester in the state.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the Defense Department is mobilizing the National Guard immediately to support federal law enforcement in Los Angeles. He also mentioned that if the violence continues, active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized.
California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the federal government for attempting to take over the California National Guard, calling it purposefully inflammatory and stating that it will only escalate tensions. He reassured that local California authorities are capable of accessing law enforcement assistance quickly and efficiently.
The protests in Paramount, Los Angeles County, were sparked by reports of an immigration raid, although Mayor Peggy Lemons later clarified that agents were staging, not conducting a raid. The protests followed similar demonstrations in LA, where federal agents raided multiple workplaces, leading to the detention of hundreds of individuals by ICE agents.
Videos from the protests showed Border Patrol agents facing off against protesters, with some smoke projectiles being deployed. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks reported several arrests for assaults on federal agents during the protests.
Federal law enforcement operations are set to continue in Los Angeles County, with U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli urging the public not to interfere with lawful actions. He warned that anyone obstructing federal agents would face arrest and prosecution.
The response to the protests saw local and federal officials pointing fingers, with ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons faulting local officials for their response to the situation. LAPD denied claims of delayed response and stated that their actions were impacted by the deployment of chemical irritants by federal authorities.
The protests in LA culminated in the LAPD declaring an unlawful assembly, with officers dispersing the crowd after reports of violent behavior. Mayor Karen Bass condemned the ICE operations in the city and emphasized the need for peaceful protests.
Despite the unrest in Paramount, protests in LA remained peaceful, with Mayor Bass emphasizing the right to peaceful protest while condemning violence and destruction. The authorities are working closely to ensure the safety and security of all individuals involved in the protests.
