National Guard, Marines Deployed to Los Angeles as Immigration Protests Turn Volatile
President Trump has deployed the National Guard and U.S. Marines to Los Angeles in response to escalating protests against recent immigration raids. California leaders, including Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass, have condemned the move as an unconstitutional overreach. Protesters remain defiant, while legal challenges loom over the federal government’s actions.
In a dramatic escalation of federal response to ongoing protests against immigration raids, President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of the National Guard and U.S. Marines to Los Angeles. The move comes after days of large-scale demonstrations, with activists condemning recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations as aggressive and unjust.
Federal Troops Arrive Amid Rising Tensions
Eyewitnesses report military vehicles and armed personnel moving into key areas of Los Angeles, including near protest sites and federal buildings. The deployment follows President Trump’s statement earlier this week declaring the protests a “threat to public safety” and vowing to restore order.
"We cannot allow chaos to rule our streets," Trump said in a press briefing. "If local leaders won’t enforce the law, the federal government will."
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who called the move an "overreach" and an "unnecessary militarization" of the city.
Protesters Defiant Despite Military Presence
Despite the heavy security presence, thousands of demonstrators continue to rally, chanting slogans like "No troops, no raids!" and "We are not afraid!" Civil rights groups warn that the military deployment risks further inflaming tensions and could lead to violent confrontations.
"Bringing in the Marines and National Guard to suppress peaceful protests is an authoritarian tactic," said Javier Hernandez, an organizer with the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA). "This is not about safety; it’s about intimidation."
Legal Challenges and Political Backlash
California officials are exploring legal options to challenge the deployment, arguing that the state was not properly consulted. Governor Newsom has vowed to resist what he calls "an unconstitutional occupation." Meanwhile, congressional Democrats have condemned the move, with some calling for emergency hearings.
Subsequently?
With military forces now on the ground, the situation in Los Angeles remains volatile. Protest leaders have announced plans for larger marches this weekend, while federal authorities insist they will maintain order.
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This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
