President Trump deploys National Guard to Los Angeles as anti-immigration protests erupt into violence, setting off a showdown with California leadership over state sovereignty.

At a Glance

• President Trump authorized deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles without Governor Newsom’s approval
• Protesters blocked freeways, set self-driving cars on fire, and clashed with law enforcement who used tear gas and rubber bullets
• Governor Newsom called the deployment a “serious breach of state sovereignty” and demanded troops be returned to state command
• Trump cited a legal provision for deploying federal forces due to what he termed a “Migrant Invasion” and “lawless riots”
• About 500 Marines remain on standby at Twentynine Palms for potential deployment

Presidential Intervention Sparks Constitutional Debate

In an unprecedented move that has inflamed tensions between federal and state authorities, President Donald Trump deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles to quell ongoing protests related to immigration enforcement.

The deployment marks the first time in decades that a state’s National Guard has been activated without the governor’s request. Trump authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard members to protect federal facilities, including a detention center, while citing a legal provision that allows deployment of federal service members during what he perceives as a rebellion.

California Governor Gavin Newsom immediately pushed back against the federal intervention, formally requesting that the Trump administration rescind the deployment. “I have formally requested the Trump Administration rescind their unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles county and return them to my command.

We didn’t have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty—inflaming tensions while pulling resources from where they’re actually needed. Rescind the order. Return control to California,” Newsom stated.

🚨 Escalation in Los Angeles Marks a Constitutional Emergency

The current military escalation in Los Angeles represents what may be an unprecedented moment in American history: the deployment of federally controlled National Guard troops—and the threatened use of active-duty… pic.twitter.com/rgB8NbQNaY

— The Intellectualist (@highbrow_nobrow) June 8, 2025

Escalating Violence Amid Immigration Crackdown

The protests erupted in response to the Trump administration’s announced plans for what is being described as the largest mass deportation in U.S. history. Demonstrators have taken to the streets following reports of detainees being held in the basement of a federal building, claims which Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has denied. The situation escalated when protesters blocked major freeways and set self-driving cars on fire, prompting a forceful response from law enforcement.

“We will always protect the constitutional right for Angelenos to peacefully protest. However, violence, destruction and vandalism will not be tolerated in our City and those responsible will be held fully accountable,” said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

Police declared an unlawful assembly after clashes intensified, with reports of protesters throwing rocks and at least one Molotov cocktail incident. Law enforcement responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs to control the crowd. By early evening, many protesters had dispersed following police orders, though the city remains on tactical alert as tensions continue to simmer.

Trump Deploys National Guard to Los Angeles Amid Immigration Protests

Tensions erupt in Los Angeles as President Trump orders 2,000 California National Guard troops to intervene in protests against federal immigration sweeps. The deployment, made over Governor Gavin Newsom’s…

— Political Maverick (@PoliticalMav) June 8, 2025

Political Divide Deepens Over Immigration Enforcement

President Trump has authorized Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi to take all necessary action against what he described as a “Migrant Invasion” and “Migrant riots.” Trump claimed Los Angeles is occupied by “Illegal Aliens and Criminals” and vowed to restore order and expel those he termed “Illegals.” This language has further inflamed the already tense situation and widened the political divide over immigration policy.

“This is part of a cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division,” former Vice President Kamala Harris said, criticizing the immigration arrests and National Guard deployment. Harris expressed support for those defending fundamental rights and freedoms.

The conflict highlights the growing tension between sanctuary jurisdictions like Los Angeles and federal immigration enforcement policies. Trump is reportedly using the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to expand deportation authority, a move that legal experts suggest may face court challenges. As the standoff continues, approximately 500 Marines remain on standby at Twentynine Palms, ready to deploy if deemed necessary by federal authorities.