President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles, sparking controversy with Governor Gavin Newsom after clashes between protesters and federal immigration authorities in riot gear.
Tensions escalated in Paramount, south of Los Angeles, as clashes broke out near a Home Depot where federal agents were stationed. Tear gas, flash-bang explosives, and pepper balls were deployed by agents, while protesters retaliated by hurling rocks and cement at Border Patrol vehicles.
Following a series of immigration sweeps in LA, tensions remained high as the number of immigrant arrests in the city surpassed 100. A union leader was arrested for protesting and accused of obstructing law enforcement.
The White House announced Trump’s decision to deploy the Guard to address the escalating situation, while Governor Newsom criticized the move as inflammatory and urged against violence.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also warned of potential deployment of U.S. military forces if violence continued.
Protests and clashes continued in Paramount and Compton, leading to arrests and a car being set on fire. Demonstrations also took place in downtown Los Angeles, with authorities declaring an unlawful assembly.
Standoff in Paramount
Immigration officers clashed with demonstrators in Paramount, leading to confrontations and arrests. The presence of federal agents sparked fear among community members.
Additional arrests were made by federal agents in Paramount, while the California National Guard was mobilized by Trump under Title 10 authority.
Trump’s decision to deploy the Guard was met with criticism from local leaders, including Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who asserted control over the situation.
In 2020, Trump had called on governors to deploy National Guard troops to quell protests, but did not invoke the Insurrection Act at that time.
Arrests in Los Angeles
Protests erupted in Los Angeles following immigration arrests, with 44 individuals detained for violating immigration laws. ICE operations in the city resulted in the arrest of 118 immigrants.
Union leader David Huerta was among those arrested, sparking calls for his release by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
Despite the deployment of the National Guard, local authorities asserted their ability to manage the situation and maintain public safety.
