President Donald Trump has sent 2,000 National Guard soldiers to Los Angeles to help maintain order amid escalating immigration protests that have turned violent. The deployment comes as protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intensify, mirroring the unrest seen in 2020. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem emphasized that Trump is prioritizing the safety of both the community and law enforcement.
Noem made these comments during an appearance on CBS’ "Face the Nation," where she highlighted the need for a strong response to the riots. She criticized Democratic leaders, particularly California Governor Gavin Newsom, suggesting that his decisions have failed to protect citizens. Noem pointed to the chaos in Minnesota during the 2020 riots as a cautionary example, stating that Trump wants to prevent a similar situation in Los Angeles.
The protests began following federal immigration raids in the area, which have resulted in arrests of individuals with criminal histories, including assault and drug offenses. In response to the unrest, Noem stated that the National Guard is trained to handle crowd situations and will help ensure safety for both protesters and law enforcement.
Governor Newsom has countered that the National Guard’s presence is unnecessary and more about creating a spectacle than addressing a genuine law enforcement shortage. He has deployed the California Highway Patrol to manage safety on highways but insists that assisting in federal immigration enforcement is not within their role.
As tensions rise, images from the protests show cars being set on fire and confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement. The situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for continued clashes. The National Guard’s deployment is seen as a proactive measure to prevent further violence and maintain peace during these heated protests.