The Trump administration deployed the California National Guard in response to large-scale protests in Los Angeles that erupted Friday evening over immigration enforcement operations. The protests, which escalated over the weekend, led to confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement, including instances of vehicles set ablaze and traffic blockades on the 101 freeway.
According to a statement released by the White House, President Donald Trump signed a memorandum ordering the deployment of 2,000 National Guardsmen to California. The move was framed as an effort to “address the lawlessness” emerging from protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions.
California Leaders Push Back Against Federal Intervention
California Governor Gavin Newsom strongly opposed the Trump National Guard deployment, labeling it “purposefully inflammatory” and accusing the federal government of attempting to “take over the California National Guard.”
Newsom warned that such a move would “only escalate tensions” during an already volatile period. He called on the Trump administration to rescind the order immediately.
Trump Escalates Rhetoric on Social Media
On Sunday, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social from Camp David, further inflaming tensions by referring to the protesters as “troublemakers and insurrectionists.”
He went on to claim that those participating in the Los Angeles protests were being financially compensated, stating simply:
“Paid Insurrectionists!“
Trump also demanded public apologies from Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, accusing them of failing to maintain public order and protect federal interests.
Law Enforcement Responds with Dispersals and Arrests
As demonstrations continued into Sunday evening, LAPD declared the protest an unlawful assembly, especially after traffic was halted on the 101 freeway. Authorities issued a dispersal order and reported multiple detentions of individuals who returned to restricted areas.
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The events marked a significant escalation in the clash between state and federal officials over immigration enforcement and public protest responses, underscoring the deepening divide over policy and political authority in California.
