The ongoing protests in Los Angeles, triggered by immigration raids, have escalated as the Trump administration sends a significant military presence to the city. Thousands of troops, including 700 US Marines, are being deployed to assist local authorities in managing the unrest, which has now spread to various cities across the United States.
Governor Newsom’s strong opposition
California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the troop deployment as fulfilling “the deranged fantasy of a dictatorial president”. This military mobilization marks a historic moment, being the first time since 1965 that a president has sent National Guard troops into a city without the governor’s consent. The state has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging the legality of this action.
In a statement from the Mexican government, it was confirmed that at least four Mexican nationals detained in Los Angeles since the onset of the protests have been deported back to Mexico. This response to the unrest is unprecedented, sparking debates about the role of military forces in domestic affairs.
Protests and law enforcement response
The protests in LA began on Friday in response to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids targeting Latino communities. These demonstrations have since evolved into acts of violence and vandalism, including looting and clashes with law enforcement. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported 29 arrests on Saturday night and 21 on Sunday, with charges ranging from attempted murder to looting.
“We have not reached the point where local law enforcement has got beyond its means to deal with the situation,” District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.
The LAPD used over 600 rubber bullets and other non-lethal rounds over the weekend to control the crowds. Governor Newsom and other local officials have voiced concerns that the deployment of troops is a deliberate attempt by the Trump administration to escalate tensions in the city.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that a man accused of assaulting federal agents would be added to America’s “Most Wanted” list following a violent incident during the protests.
As unrest continues, protests have erupted in at least nine other cities, including New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco, highlighting a growing national concern over immigration policies and law enforcement tactics.
In response to the situation, President Trump defended his decision to send in the National Guard, claiming it was necessary to prevent further chaos. He stated, “You watch same clips I did: cars burning, people rioting, we stopped it. I feel we had no choice.” Meanwhile, Newsom characterized the military deployment as an act of authoritarianism, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution.
The legal battle over the deployment of troops is likely to continue, with Governor Newsom asserting that the president’s actions violate the US Constitution and California’s sovereignty. As tensions remain high, the balance between maintaining order and respecting civil liberties is brought into sharp focus.