California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a stark warning during a televised address on Tuesday, expressing concerns about President Donald Trump’s military intervention in response to the Los Angeles protests. Newsom cautioned that if Trump is not held accountable, this “assault” on democracy could spread nationwide.
“This is not just about protests in Los Angeles,” Newsom emphasized. “When Trump authorized the National Guard to intervene, that directive applied to all states. California may be the first target, but it will not stop here.”
The governor highlighted the escalating tensions in Los Angeles, where protests against federal immigration raids have been ongoing for five days. Despite objections from city and state leaders, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, Trump has deployed over 4,000 National Guard members and 700 U.S. Marines to protect federal buildings.
Newsom criticized Trump for expanding the military presence beyond its intended purpose, targeting individuals like dishwashers, gardeners, day laborers, and seamstresses. He condemned Trump’s actions as a threat to democracy and warned that the country’s legal norms and traditions are at risk.
In response to Trump’s military intervention, Newsom filed a lawsuit against the administration, accusing Trump of unlawfully taking over California’s National Guard troops. He sought an emergency order to block the militarization of Los Angeles, with a hearing scheduled for Thursday.
Newsom urged viewers to recognize the dangers of authoritarianism and the erosion of civil liberties. He criticized Trump’s decision to hold a military parade on his birthday, drawing parallels to actions of “other failed dictators.”
The governor’s address underscored the urgency of protecting democratic values and preventing unchecked executive power. Newsom’s efforts to challenge Trump’s actions highlight the ongoing struggle to uphold constitutional principles and defend the rights of all Americans.
