President Trump deploys National Guard to Los Angeles as thousands of protesters destroy property and block major highways, defying Governor Newsom’s attempts to maintain state control over the escalating immigration crisis.
Key Takeaways
- President Trump authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles, with California National Guard members already on the ground and 500 Marines on standby.
- Governor Gavin Newsom opposed the deployment, calling it a “serious breach of state sovereignty” and challenging Trump’s border czar Tom Homan with “Come and get me, tough guy.”
- Protesters blocked major freeways, set self-driving Waymo cars on fire, and engaged in acts of vandalism, resulting in at least 56 arrests.
- Law enforcement declared an unlawful assembly and used tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs to control the crowds after violence escalated.
- This marks the first time in decades that a state’s National Guard was activated without the governor’s request, with Trump citing a legal provision regarding perceived rebellion.
Trump Takes Decisive Action Against Los Angeles Unrest
President Donald Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles has been confirmed by U.S. Northern Command, with forces already positioned on the ground following days of escalating protests and civil unrest. The president authorized 2,000 National Guard members to restore order after thousands of demonstrators took to the streets, blocking major freeways and engaging in destructive behavior including setting self-driving Waymo vehicles ablaze. This military response came after local law enforcement struggled to contain the situation, which Trump characterized as involving “violent people” who threatened public safety.
The deployment represents a significant assertion of federal authority over state control. Trump invoked a rarely-used legal provision that allows for deployment of federal service members in cases of perceived rebellion. This marks the first time in decades that a state’s National Guard was activated without the governor’s request, establishing a clear precedent for presidential authority during civil unrest when state leadership appears unwilling or unable to restore order. Additionally, approximately 500 Marines have been placed on standby at Twentynine Palms, indicating the administration’s readiness to escalate the response if necessary.
Governor Newsom’s Defiant Response
California Governor Gavin Newsom has mounted an aggressive resistance to the federal intervention, demanding the immediate withdrawal of National Guard troops from Los Angeles. Newsom characterized the deployment as a “serious breach of state sovereignty,” claiming that Trump ordered the action to create a “spectacle” rather than address legitimate security concerns. The governor’s defiance escalated further when he directly challenged Trump’s border czar Tom Homan, who had threatened to arrest state officials who interfere with federal immigration enforcement efforts.
“Trump’s border czar is threatening to arrest me for speaking out. Come and get me, tough guy,” said Gavin Newsom.
The confrontation between state and federal authorities highlights the fundamental divide over immigration enforcement policies. While Governor Newsom continues to advocate for sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration officials, President Trump has made it clear that he intends to enforce federal immigration laws regardless of state opposition. The deployment of military personnel to Los Angeles represents a significant escalation in this ongoing power struggle, with Trump demonstrating his willingness to use all available federal resources to address what he has termed a “Migrant Invasion.”
Protests Intensify Across Los Angeles
The protests that prompted the National Guard deployment have grown increasingly volatile, with demonstrators engaging in acts of vandalism, arson, and confrontations with law enforcement. Police declared an unlawful assembly after protesters blocked major highways and engaged in property destruction, using tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs to disperse crowds. At least 56 people have been arrested on charges including failure to disperse, with more arrests likely as protests continue. Law enforcement officials have emphasized their commitment to maintaining order while respecting constitutional rights.
“An act of violence, whether toward officers, demonstrators or the public, will be met with swift and lawful action,” said LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell.
The situation has been further complicated by incidents of civilian violence. A van driver was arrested after allegedly veering toward protesters, with reports of gunfire coming from the vehicle. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino has warned that federal authorities will investigate and prosecute anyone who engages in violence against federal officers. Meanwhile, political organization 50501 has announced plans for nationwide protests in solidarity with Los Angeles, suggesting that the unrest could spread to other major cities if not effectively contained. As National Guard troops establish their presence, tensions remain high throughout the region.
🚨🇺🇸 BREAKING: Protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids are spreading nationwide.
In Los Angeles, unrest has escalated for a third day.
➡️ Waymo autonomous vehicles have been vandalized — some set on fire.
➡️ Under Trump’s orders, National Guard… pic.twitter.com/iYIV4ZAX77— Breaking News (@PlanetReportHQ) June 9, 2025
National Response to Federal Immigration Enforcement
The deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles represents the most visible aspect of President Trump’s broader immigration enforcement strategy. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has emphasized that National Guard personnel are properly trained for crowd control situations, suggesting that they will play a key role in restoring order while federal immigration authorities continue their enforcement operations. The city of Glendale has already responded to the increased federal presence by ending its agreement to hold federal immigration detainees, citing concerns about public perception.
“National Guard troops were confirmed to be in Los Angeles after President Donald Trump ordered their deployment over the weekend, following days of protests and riots in the city,” stated U.S. Northern Command.
Critics of the administration’s approach, including former Vice President Kamala Harris, have characterized the immigration arrests and Guard deployment as part of a “cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division.” However, supporters point to the legitimate security concerns raised by the violent protests and the federal government’s constitutional responsibility to enforce immigration laws and maintain domestic tranquility. As National Guard troops continue to arrive in the Los Angeles area, their presence serves as a powerful reminder of the administration’s commitment to restoring order and enforcing federal law despite local opposition.
