Featured Image: Demonstrators holding signs and flags face California National Guard members standing guard outside the Federal Building as they protest federal immigration operations in Los Angeles, on June 9, 2025. (Apu GOMES / AFP)
Los Angeles has been the epicenter of intense protests since June 6, 2025, sparked by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids targeting undocumented immigrants. The demonstrations, which have turned confrontational at times, prompted President Donald Trump to authorize the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops along with 700 Marines to the city to restore order and protect federal property[1][3][4][5].
Cpl. Logan Courtright/US Marines/Reuters
Image source: June 11, 2025 – Anti-ICE protests in LA and across US | CNN
Background of the Protests
The unrest began after ICE conducted multiple raids in Los Angeles, arresting over 100 people suspected of immigration violations. The raids took place in locations such as the Fashion District and a Home Depot, leading to clashes between protesters and federal agents. Protesters blocked streets, including the 101 Freeway, and confrontations involved the use of tear gas, pepper spray, and flash-bang grenades by law enforcement[2][5].
The protests have been marked by significant tension, with some demonstrators throwing objects and law enforcement responding with less-lethal munitions. Multiple injuries and arrests have been reported on both sides. Local officials, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, expressed confidence in local law enforcement’s ability to manage the protests, but the situation escalated nonetheless[5][7].
President Trump’s National Guard Deployment
In a rare move, President Trump federalized the California National Guard without the consent of Governor Newsom, invoking a seldom-used federal law that allows the president to deploy the National Guard in cases of rebellion or when the enforcement of federal laws is impeded. This marked the first time since 1965 that a president has activated a state’s National Guard without the governor’s approval. The president described the protests as a threat to government authority and national security[8][9].
Governor Newsom condemned the federalization as a violation of state sovereignty and urged the president to reverse the decision. The deployment aims to quell the unrest and secure federal buildings amid ongoing demonstrations[8][9].
What is the National Guard?
The National Guard is a unique military reserve force that operates under both state and federal authority. Each state, including California, maintains its own National Guard, which consists of three components: the Army National Guard, the Air National Guard, and the State Guard. The California National Guard is the largest in the United States, with over 24,000 troops[6].
- Dual Role
- The National Guard serves a dual mission. Under the governor’s control, it can be used for state emergencies, natural disasters, and civil disturbances. When federalized by the president, it can be mobilized for national defense, war, or federal emergencies[6].
- Composition
- The Guard is composed mostly of part-time citizen-soldiers who train regularly but maintain civilian jobs or education. They undergo basic training and periodic drills to stay prepared for activation[9].
- State Guard
- The California State Guard is a component of the California National Guard but operates solely under state authority and cannot be federalized. It supports state missions and emergency responses as directed by the governor[6].
Current Situation
As of June 9, 2025, approximately 300 National Guard members were already deployed in Los Angeles, with the president authorizing an additional 2,000 troops. Marines have also been put on prepared status to assist if needed. The presence of these forces underscores the federal government’s intent to maintain control amid escalating protests related to immigration enforcement[2][3][4][5].
The protests continue to draw large crowds, with demonstrators demanding an end to ICE raids and immigration policies they view as harsh and unjust. The situation remains fluid, with authorities balancing law enforcement and crowd control measures[1][7].
This deployment highlights the complex interplay between federal authority and state sovereignty in managing civil unrest and immigration enforcement in California. The National Guard’s role as both a state and federal force is central to this dynamic, especially in times of crisis.”
Sources
- https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/la-protests-ice-raids-trump-06-09-25
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyWFQTAteYU
- https://apnews.com/live/immigration-protests-los-angeles
- https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/9/third-night-of-los-angeles-clashes-whats-the-latest-and-whats-next
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2025_Los_Angeles_anti-ICE_riots
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_National_Guard
- https://www.npr.org/2025/06/09/nx-s1-5427215/what-to-know-los-angeles-protests-ice-trump
- https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj93d3r0zz0o
- https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/08/us/national-guard.html
Featured Image Source: Defying mayor, Trump sends 2,000 more National Guard troops, 700 marines to quell LA protests | The Times of Israel
