In a dramatic escalation of tensions, President Donald Trump has deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles after protests erupted over ICE immigration raids. The move has sparked a political firestorm and raised concerns about the federal government’s response to civil unrest.
The protests began Friday after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted mass raids in Los Angeles’ Fashion District, arresting 118 individuals. Officials claim the warehouse employer used fake documents to hire undocumented workers. Protesters, however, accuse ICE of using excessive force and spreading fear in immigrant communities.
Federal Government Takes Over
On Sunday, Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum ordering the deployment of troops to restore order. His White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, stated:
“President Trump is addressing the lawlessness that local authorities have failed to control.”
The federal government also took control of California’s National Guard, bypassing state leadership.
Newsom Slams Federal Intervention
California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the federal takeover, calling it:
“Purposefully inflammatory… This action will only escalate tensions.”
He emphasized that Los Angeles officials had sufficient law enforcement support and accused Trump of eroding public trust:
“This is the wrong mission for the National Guard,” Newsom wrote on X.
Riots and Arrests
Violent clashes broke out in areas like Paramount, where federal agents used tear gas to disperse crowds. Several arrests were made, including that of union leader David Huerta. Senator Chuck Schumer criticized Huerta’s arrest, calling it an attack on free speech and labor rights.
Meanwhile, Homeland Security officials defended the raids and the military deployment. ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons said:
“We are making Los Angeles safer.”
Trump’s Harsh Criticism
Trump didn’t hold back. He attacked both Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, posting:
“If Governor Gavin Newscum and Mayor Karen Bass can’t do their jobs, the federal government will step in and solve the problem – RIOTS & LOOTERS!”
His Border Security Adviser, Tom Homan, added that military deployment was essential for public safety.
Public Reaction and Concerns
The situation has divided Americans. A TOI reader poll asked:
“Is President Trump’s approach effective?”
Responses were mixed, with some praising his strong stance while others criticized the move as authoritarian.
Activists and rights groups have expressed fear that this could set a precedent for using military force against peaceful protests. They’ve called for accountability, transparency, and dialogue instead of force.
What’s Next?
The protests show no signs of slowing down. Civil rights groups are planning further demonstrations, while legal teams prepare to challenge arrests in court.
With the 2026 midterms on the horizon, analysts say this confrontation could heavily influence immigration and civil rights debates.