The Donald Trump administration stepped in to deal with the protests in Los Angeles over immigration enforcement raids that entered a volatile phase this weekend. The federal government took over the California national guard and deployed 2,000 soldiers. The move came after US President Donald Trump criticized California officials including Governor Gavin Newsom and threatened federal action.

ICE reported 118 arrests as part of operations that began Friday, including at a warehouse in the downtown fashion district. Authorities allege the employer used false documents for some workers. Demonstrators have accused ICE and other agencies of using excessive force and say their actions have sparked fear in immigrant communities.

Trump ordered 2,000 National Guardsmen to be deployed to Los Angeles, according to his spokeswoman, as clashes with federal agents continued for a second night amid protests over immigration raids.

"President Trump has signed a Presidential Memorandum deploying 2,000 national guardsmen to address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said.

Governor Newsom's Response

California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the federal government’s move to take control of the California national guard and deploy 2,000 troops to Los Angeles. He said that the move was "purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions."

"The federal government is moving to take over the California national guard and deploy 2,000 soldiers. That move is purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions. LA authorities are able to access law enforcement assistance at a moment’s notice. We are in close coordination with the city and county, and there is currently no unmet need. The guard has been admirably serving LA throughout recovery. This is the wrong mission and will erode public trust," he said in a post on X.

Trump's Criticism

Trump strongly criticized California governor Newsom and LA mayor Karen Bass over the protests. “If Governor Gavin Newscum, of California, and Mayor Karen Bass, of Los Angeles, can’t do their jobs… the federal government will step in and solve the problem, RIOTS & LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!!” Trump wrote.

His statement came as federal officials including ICE acting director Todd Lyons and Trump border security adviser Tom Homan defended the enforcement efforts and announced plans to bring in National Guard forces. Homan claimed the move was necessary for public safety, saying, “We are making Los Angeles safer. Mayor Bass should be thanking us.”

Source: Times of India.