Los Angeles, USA – President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles following escalating protests against recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. The demonstrations, sparked by the arrest of 44 individuals over alleged immigration violations, have turned parts of downtown LA into an “unlawful assembly” zone, with protesters demanding ICE leave the city.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, stating,
“If Newsom and Bass can’t do their jobs, then the Federal Government will step in and solve the problem—RIOTS & LOOTERS—the way it should be solved.”
The move has drawn backlash for bypassing standard protocol, which typically requires a state governor to request federal intervention. Governor Newsom condemned the White House’s actions, accusing Trump of exploiting the situation.
“This administration would rather stoke fear than work with local leaders to find real solutions,” Newsom said in a statement.
Protesters gathered outside a federal detention center where detainees were held, chanting “Set them free, let them stay!” and “ICE out of L.A.!” Police declared downtown LA an unlawful assembly area as tensions rose.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth backed Trump’s decision, warning that further unrest could trigger a stronger response.
“If violence continues, active-duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized—they are on high alert,” Hegseth told CNN.
Approximately 300 National Guard troops are already on the ground.
Political analysts suggest Trump’s aggressive stance is an effort to reinforce his immigration policies, even at the cost of overriding state authority.
“This shows the president’s willingness to use federal power to enforce his agenda, regardless of jurisdictional lines,” said one analyst.
As clashes continue, the situation highlights deepening divisions over immigration enforcement and federal-state tensions in the U.S.
Zim GBC News 2025