Trump Deploys Troops to Los Angeles amid Protests, Prompting Protests by Governor

Thousands of additional federal troops—including approximately 700 Marines—and National Guard units are being deployed to Los Angeles as protests ignite across the US in response to recent immigration raids. The National Guard presence has been doubled to 4,000 personnel.

California Governor Gavin Newsom lambasted the decision, calling it a fulfillment of a “deranged fantasy of a dictatorial president,” and has filed a lawsuit against the action, asserting it violates state sovereignty. This deployment marks the first time since 1965 that a president has mobilized National Guard forces to a US city without gubernatorial approval—a move typically reserved for natural disasters and wartime, not domestic unrest.

At least four Mexican nationals detained during the raids have since been deported, according to Mexican officials.

In Los Angeles, federal agents used stun grenades and gas to disperse crowds outside an immigration detention center, while National Guard troops established security perimeters. LA County District Attorney Nathan Hochman noted that local law enforcement has largely been capable of managing the situation, despite a small but disruptive group engaging in violent acts.

Federal officials identified Elpidio Reyna as a suspect in an assault on federal agents and announced he will be placed on a “Most Wanted” list.

Citywide protests have spread to New York, San Francisco, Dallas, Philadelphia, and Austin, with participants initially rallying against the immigration raids before some devolved into clashes involving arrests, looting, and property damage.

President Trump defended the deployment, stating it prevented Los Angeles from “burning down,” and issued a stern warning to protesters against violence. He also criticized Governor Newsom, suggesting he should face arrest for hindering federal enforcement.

Local officials, including LA Mayor Karen Bass, characterized the troop deployment as an orchestrated federal attempt to create chaos and intimidate city residents. Meanwhile, legal efforts continue with California challenging both Guard and Marine mobilizations, contending they breach constitutional limits.

Trump has defended his strategy as part of his broader immigration enforcement plan, which includes stepped-up deportations and aims to remove at least 3,000 undocumented immigrants daily.