President Donald Trump has escalated the federal response to immigration protests in Los Angeles by deploying an additional 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines, bringing the total to approximately 4,700 troops in the city. This follows an initial deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops on June 7, 2025, in response to clashes between protesters and federal immigration authorities, particularly in the heavily Latino areas of Paramount and Compton. The protests, sparked by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids that arrested 118 immigrants, have continued for four days, with demonstrators blocking streets, setting fires, and clashing with law enforcement, who have used tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs.
California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have condemned the deployments as unnecessary and inflammatory, arguing local law enforcement can handle the situation. Newsom has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming the federalization of the National Guard violates state sovereignty and that the deployment of Marines is illegal under the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts active-duty military from domestic law enforcement. The administration defends the move, citing public safety concerns and alleging that protesters, described as “violent mobs,” are obstructing federal operations.
Tensions remain high, with protests continuing and reports of property damage, including burned vehicles. The situation has drawn national attention, with critics warning that the military presence could escalate unrest further.