Los Angeles Protests Escalate: National Guard Deployed, Marines on Standby
Protests have erupted in various parts of Los Angeles following ICE raids over the weekend, with some turning violent and destructive. President Trump has responded by deploying thousands of National Guard troops to the region, and the U.S. Defense Secretary has threatened to mobilize active duty Marines. The protests began on Saturday in Paramount and Compton, where demonstrators set a car on fire. As tensions escalated, clashes between protestors and federal officers in downtown L.A. led to the declaration of an "Unlawful Assembly" by the LAPD. Governor Newsom announced the deployment of additional California Highway Patrol units to ensure safety on Los Angeles highways, criticizing the federal government's actions as causing chaos and escalating tensions.
President Trump took to social media to criticize Governor Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass for their handling of the situation, threatening to intervene if they couldn't control the riots and looters. Mayor Bass acknowledged the challenges facing the city and expressed concern over reports of unrest in Paramount. The White House announced the deployment of National Guard troops to address the lawlessness and violence targeting ICE officers and federal law enforcement agents. The statement condemned the violent attacks and criticized California's Democratic leaders for failing to protect their citizens.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the consequences of attacking law enforcement officers, stating that those who harm police officers will face legal repercussions. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth warned of mobilizing active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton if the violence persists. Governor Newsom responded to the deployment of the National Guard, urging peaceful protest and discouraging violence. The situation remains tense as federal and state authorities navigate the ongoing protests and clashes in Los Angeles.