Tensions Rise as National Guard and Marines Deploy to L.A. Amid Protests

The deployment of 4,000 National Guard members and 700 Marines in Los Angeles in response to immigration protests raises legal and constitutional questions, with California’s governor warning of escalating authoritarianism.

In an unprecedented move, President Trump has deployed 4,000 National Guard members alongside 700 Marines to Los Angeles, responding to ongoing protests against immigration raids. Military intervention on U.S. soil is a rare occurrence, typically reserved for extreme emergencies. California officials are now seeking an emergency court order to restrict the military’s presence to the protection of federal property.

During a televised address, California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed deep concern over the deployment, stating that it marks a dangerous shift towards authoritarian governance in the U.S. “California may be first, but it clearly won’t end here,” he argued. “Other states are next. Democracy is next.”

President Trump defended the actions, arguing that military involvement was necessary to prevent chaos, stating, "If we didn’t get involved, right now Los Angeles would be burning.” However, experts like Helene Cooper, who reports on the Pentagon, indicated that the deployment is likely pushing the boundaries of legal authority, especially since National Guard troops usually work under the governor's orders during domestic situations.

Active-duty military forces are generally prohibited from engaging in law enforcement operations within the U.S. unless the Insurrection Act is invoked. As noted by Cooper, the current protests in Los Angeles are not significant enough to be classified as an insurrection. Meanwhile, reactions continue to unfold as Mayor Karen Bass has imposed a curfew in downtown Los Angeles, while thousands of demonstrators have gathered across the nation to express their dissent. Live updates are ongoing as the situation develops.