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Tensions Surge as Federal Troops Arrive in Los Angeles

In a controversial move that has ignited a firestorm of political backlash, President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard members to Los Angeles early Sunday, responding to intensifying immigration-related protests across the city. The troops began arriving just hours after the executive order was signed late Saturday night, a decision made without California’s consent.

According to the White House, the deployment is intended to restore law and order in the wake of “violent attacks” against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers and other federal personnel carrying out deportation operations.

“In recent days, violent mobs have attacked ICE Officers and Federal Law Enforcement Agents carrying out basic deportation operations in Los Angeles,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt in an official statement to NBC News.

Federalizing California’s National Guard Sparks Legal, Political Feud

Trump’s action effectively federalized portions of the California National Guard—an unusual move that bypasses the state’s authority and places those troops under federal command. Typically, National Guard units report to state governors unless a federal emergency is declared.

California Governor Gavin Newsom immediately challenged the legality of the deployment, calling it “unlawful” and demanding the troops be returned to his control.

“I have formally requested the Trump Administration rescind their unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles County and return them to my command,” Newsom wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Newsom also criticized the decision as a “purposefully inflammatory” tactic that would only deepen unrest and undermine local coordination efforts. “There is no unmet need,” he insisted, noting that city and county law enforcement were already working together effectively.

Local Leaders Voice Concerns Over Safety, Escalation

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass echoed those concerns, calling the arrival of federal troops a “chaotic escalation” that could fuel fear among immigrant communities and potentially lead to further clashes.

“The fear people are feeling in our city right now is very real – it’s felt in our communities and within our families,” said Bass. “It puts our neighborhoods at risk.”

She urged protesters to remain peaceful and confirmed she is in regular contact with immigrant rights organizations and law enforcement agencies.

The protests have already led to over 100 arrests, and tensions remain high as federal and local authorities navigate the volatile situation.

White House Signals Possible Marine Deployment

Despite calls for de-escalation, the federal government signaled it may further increase military presence. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that active-duty U.S. Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton are on “high alert” and could be deployed if violence continues.

“If violence continues, active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized,” Hegseth wrote on X.

In a Truth Social post Sunday morning, Trump praised the National Guard’s involvement, writing:

“Great job by the National Guard in Los Angeles after two days of violence, clashes and unrest.”

That post came even before the troops had officially arrived on the ground.

Trump Defends Action Amid UFC Appearance

While federal troops were en route to Los Angeles, Trump was seen attending a UFC match at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The optics of his public appearance, combined with the heavy-handed response in California, have sparked criticism from opponents who accuse the former president of political theater.

The White House followed up the order with a formal memo sent to the Secretary of Defense, Attorney General, and Secretary of Homeland Security.

“To the extent that protests or acts of violence directly inhibit the execution of the laws, they constitute a form of rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States,” the memo read.
“I hereby call into Federal service members and units of the National Guard.”

Fallout and Reactions Across the Political Spectrum

Vice President JD Vance took a hardline stance, calling the demonstrators “insurrectionists” and accusing them of undermining national sovereignty.

“Insurrectionists carrying foreign flags are attacking immigration enforcement officers,” Vance wrote. “One half of America’s political leadership has decided that border enforcement is evil.”

Meanwhile, labor leader David Huerta, president of SEIU California, was injured and arrested on Friday while observing the protests. Federal agents claimed he was “obstructing” enforcement activities—a charge that immigrant advocacy groups say is politically motivated.

Civil rights organizations, including the ACLU of Southern California and the National Immigration Law Center, have condemned the federal action as a violation of state sovereignty and human rights.

What's Next?

Political analysts suggest this showdown between federal and state governments could end up in court if Trump refuses to rescind the order. California officials continue to call for a rollback of military involvement and urge peaceful resolution.

The ongoing protests—spurred by new immigration enforcement actions—are likely to continue through the week, with more demonstrations expected across major California cities.

As the nation watches closely, the clash over federal authority, immigration enforcement, and the role of the military in domestic protests raises critical questions about civil liberties and the limits of presidential power.