President Donald Trump authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles in response to escalating riots sparked by federal immigration enforcement operations. Protests erupted over the deportation of illegal immigrants, overwhelming local law enforcement and prompting LAPD officials to declare an “unlawful assembly” in downtown L.A. over the weekend. On X, the LAPD warned of splintering agitators and advised residents to remain alert. Despite Governor Gavin Newsom’s insistence that no federal assistance was needed, the White House said the situation demanded intervention. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized Newsom as “too weak” to maintain control, saying federal officers were attacked by “violent radicals and illegal criminals.” She defended Trump’s actions as necessary to “protect federal buildings and restore order.”

In addition to the Guard, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered 700 U.S. Marines trained in de-escalation tactics to assist in securing federal assets. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the troops would support peaceful protests and law enforcement efforts. Governor Newsom condemned Trump’s federalization of the Guard, calling it “illegal” and accusing the president of inflaming tensions for political gain. “This is exactly what Donald Trump wanted,” Newsom said. “We’re suing him.” Meanwhile, Trump doubled down. Asked by Fox News’s Peter Doocy about Newsom’s defiance, Trump joked that border czar Tom Homan should arrest the governor for harboring illegal immigrants, calling Newsom “a nice guy” but “grossly incompetent.” The situation remains tense as legal and political battles unfold.