Trump Deploys National Guard to LA Over Immigration Protests, Clashes with Governor Newsom
President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles to quell protests against immigration enforcement, overriding Governor Gavin Newsom's objections. Clashes erupted between demonstrators and Border Patrol personnel in Paramount, involving tear gas and flash-bangs. The White House cited "lawlessness," while Newsom called the deployment "purposefully inflammatory." The protests followed ICE operations that resulted in 118 arrests, part of Trump's push for mass deportations.
Unpacked:
President Trump cited “lawlessness” as the justification for overriding Governor Newsom and deploying the National Guard, arguing it was necessary to restore order amid escalating protests and clashes with federal agents. Newsom, however, viewed the deployment as unnecessarily provocative and politically motivated.
The protests in Paramount were triggered by recent ICE raids, especially at a Home Depot where day laborers gather, resulting in 44 arrests for immigration violations and one for obstructing justice. The aggressive federal actions and their targeting of a predominantly Latino area fueled the community's response.
Many local residents, especially in the predominantly Latino community of Paramount, protested the raids and military-style response, chanting anti-ICE slogans. Governor Newsom and local officials criticized the federal deployment as inflammatory and called for restraint and respect for civil liberties.
This deployment highlights tensions between federal and state governments over immigration enforcement. It raises questions about federal authority to intervene in state affairs and could set a precedent for future responses to immigration protests, potentially straining cooperation and deepening political divisions on immigration policy.