
L.A. in CHAOS – National Guard DEPLOYED Without Consent!
The National Guard’s deployment in Los Angeles marks a critical intervention amid escalating anti-ICE protests that have turned into vehement riots.
At a Glance
- Anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles escalated with major disruptions and vandalism.
- Law enforcement declared downtown LA an “unlawful assembly” area and struggled to regain control.
- President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops against Governor Newsom’s objections.
- The protests include widespread damage, injuries, and arrests, with calls for more federal intervention.
Protests Erupt into Chaos
Protests against federal immigration enforcement in Los Angeles rapidly escalated, with major freeway blockages and self-driving vehicles set ablaze, causing significant disruption. Law enforcement faced a challenging situation, employing tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs to disperse increasingly aggressive crowds. Despite these efforts, the city declared downtown as an “unlawful assembly” area after continued protests and numerous arrests.
The demonstrations saw protesters bearing Mexican flags, voicing strong opposition to federal immigration authorities. In addition to the vandalism and arson of self-driving Waymo vehicles, the city faced a surge in looting, fireworks, and fires, leaving debris and graffiti littering downtown streets. A van drove into a group of protesters, leading to several injuries and an arrest.
Federal Intervention Amidst Local Struggles
Amid intense civil unrest, President Trump ordered 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles. This federal mobilization occurred despite California Governor Gavin Newsom labeling the action as “illegal” and “immoral.” Trump justified the decision with an emergency memorandum, citing an urgent need to curb the riots. The deployment marked a rare federal intervention without gubernatorial consent, not seen since 1965.
“an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act.” – Newsom.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt supported Trump’s decisive approach, indicating an administration with zero tolerance for violence against law enforcement. Arrests were consistently made, with reports of Molotov cocktails and a motorcycle ramming into officers. Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell described being “overwhelmed” by the violent protestors.
Continuing Tensions and Future Outlook
The federal decision to deploy the National Guard seeks to re-establish order amidst local law enforcement’s constraints. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that if the situation remains uncontrolled, the U.S. Marine Corps is prepared for activation. The situation in Los Angeles has been framed as a national security risk exacerbated by criminal elements. Jose Barrera from LULAC criticized the deployment, arguing it exacerbates tensions on the ground.
President Trump on Truth Social suggested further need for troops, reinforcing his commitment to bring stability. The current unrest presents a complex challenge requiring both immediate and long-term strategies to address the root causes and consequences of such civil disturbances. As Los Angeles attempts to mend after the turmoil, the discussion on federal versus state authority continues.