National Guard Deployed to Los Angeles Amid Rising Tensions Over
Immigrants raids
Early this morning, approximately 300 National Guard troops arrived in Los Angeles, marking the initial wave of a broader federal deployment ordered by President Donald Trump. The administration’s plan calls for up to 2,000 troops to be stationed in key urban areas across California, a decision that has sparked intense political backlash and public concern.
Governor Gavin Newsom swiftly condemned the deployment,
labeling it “unjustified and provocative,” while Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass denounced the move as a “chaotic escalation” that risks further inflaming tensions in already volatile communities. Both leaders expressed frustration with the federal government’s unilateral action, arguing that it undermines local authority and needlessly militarizes the situation.
Tom Homan, the administration’s appointed border enforcement adviser—often referred to as the “border czar”—defended the President’s decision in a televised press briefing. He warned that any attempt by state or local officials to interfere with the federal operation could result in legal consequences. “We will not tolerate obstruction,” Homan stated. “If Governor Newsom or Mayor Bass instruct their agencies to stand in the way, we’ll have no choice but to consider legal action, including arrests.”
The deployment comes amid escalating unrest following a series of high-profile federal immigration raids in Southern California, which have prompted widespread protests. Demonstrators took to the streets of Los Angeles yesterday in large numbers, voicing their anger over what they view as racially targeted enforcement actions and an aggressive show of federal force. Many carried signs denouncing ICE and calling for sanctuary protections to be upheld across the state.
By nightfall, the demonstrations had grown increasingly tense. Protesters clashed with police in several neighborhoods, with pockets of violence breaking out near downtown. According to a law enforcement official familiar with the incident, the Los Angeles Police Department arrested 11 individuals for failure to disperse after several warnings were issued. Minor injuries were reported among both protesters and officers, though no fatalities or serious harm occurred.
In anticipation of continued unrest, city officials have called for calm while urging residents to exercise their right to protest peacefully. Additional demonstrations are expected today, with community organizations planning rallies and vigils at key civic locations throughout Los Angeles.
Civil rights groups have criticized the federal deployment as an unconstitutional overreach, with the ACLU and other advocacy organizations promising to challenge the move in court. “This is not about law and order,” said an ACLU spokesperson. “This is about intimidation, plain and simple.”
As Los Angeles braces for another day of protests and heightened security, the standoff between state and federal leaders appears to be escalating. What began as a policy disagreement over immigration enforcement has now grown into a larger battle over states’ rights, civil liberties, and the use of military force within U.S. cities.
Hlo