U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles, intensifying an already significant military presence amidst ongoing protests opposing immigration raids. Local authorities, including Governor Gavin Newsom, have expressed their disapproval of this escalation.
Concerns have been raised by law enforcement, particularly the police chief, about the potential logistical challenges of managing protests with military personnel present. Protests against immigration enforcement actions are expected to persist across various cities in the United States.
In response to questions about the military presence, Trump stated he was not concerned and assured that the troops would remain in Los Angeles “until there’s no danger.” He estimated the duration at approximately 60 days, with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth revealing the deployment would cost around $134 million, primarily for travel and sustenance. Hegseth mentioned that this is part of a broader strategy to utilise the National Guard for homeland security more extensively under Trump’s administration.
During an Oval Office briefing, Trump indicated he might consider invoking the Insurrection Act, which allows a president to deploy military forces domestically to maintain order, should he perceive an insurrection. His remarks came following a surge in violent protests, which he described as “terrible.”
The political landscape is divided, with some calling for peaceful demonstrations while expressing apprehension about the federal approach to immigration raids. Congressman David Valadao from California acknowledged the importance of the First Amendment but condemned the violence that has transpired in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders supported Trump’s decision, asserting that such actions wouldn’t be tolerated in her own state.
As tensions mount, protests over the immigration raids have spread across the country, with gatherings in cities like Seattle, where demonstrators displayed signs demanding an end to deportations. While many of these gatherings have been peaceful, some have resulted in clashes with law enforcement and numerous arrests. The demonstrations are indicative of a nationwide response to the federal immigration policy and military involvement in civil unrest.