Tensions escalated in Los Angeles as protests against former President Donald Trump turned violent over the weekend. Thousands took to the streets, leading to clashes with law enforcement and a series of arrests. The situation drew significant media attention, with many describing it as a volatile scene reminiscent of past civil unrest.
The protests began peacefully but quickly escalated on Saturday, June 14, 2025. Demonstrators gathered to voice their opposition to Trump, but as the day progressed, confrontations with police intensified. Officers responded by deploying tear gas to disperse the crowds, which had begun throwing rocks and other objects. The Los Angeles Police Department issued warnings for people to leave the area as tensions rose.
Mayor Karen Bass addressed the unrest, stating that the current situation cannot be compared to the infamous 1992 Rodney King riots. She emphasized that while there have been arrests and injuries on both sides, the scale and impact of the current protests are not on the same level as those historic events. Bass described the unrest as occurring in a limited area of the city, contrasting it with the widespread chaos of past riots.
During an interview with CNN, Bass remarked, "There is zero comparison" between the current protests and the civil unrest of the early 90s. She expressed concern over the portrayal of Los Angeles as a city in chaos, suggesting that many residents do not recognize the city being described in the media.
The mayor also criticized the impact of recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids on the local economy, highlighting the essential role of immigrant labor in various industries. She pointed out that the fear and disruption caused by these raids have had a detrimental effect on businesses in the city.
As the protests continued, law enforcement maintained a strong presence, and the situation remained tense. The LAPD warned of a dispersal order in affected areas, urging people to leave to avoid further conflict. The events of the weekend serve as a reminder of the ongoing political divisions in the country and the passionate responses they can provoke in communities.