California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply criticized the U.S. Marines and National Guard on Saturday, accusing them of “bringing war to the American people” during their recent mission in Los Angeles. The comments came as Newsom attempted to undermine President Donald Trump, who is campaigning for the Nobel Peace Prize after resolving multiple global conflicts.
In June, President Trump federalized the California National Guard after local authorities failed to contain violent anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles. Activists opposed to Immigration and Customs Enforcement had attacked police and government buildings, blocked major highways, and threatened to expand the unrest. When the Guard struggled to hold back escalating violence, Trump deployed Marines to secure federal property and protect ICE officers during operations. The mission restored order, and troops were withdrawn once stability returned.
Newsom, eyeing the 2028 Democratic presidential primary, used the episode to accuse Trump of militarizing domestic issues. By describing the Marines’ peacekeeping mission as “war,” Newsom implied that federal forces posed a greater danger to citizens than the rioters themselves. His remarks, however, overlooked the fact that the Marines were tasked only with defensive measures—guarding federal buildings and ensuring public safety.
Meanwhile, Trump’s pursuit of the Nobel Peace Prize aligns with the original intent outlined in Alfred Nobel’s will: to reward leaders who advance peace, reduce conflict, and foster cooperation among nations. In his first seven months in office, Trump has helped resolve more than half a dozen armed conflicts worldwide. His actions reflect a principle often ignored by critics—that the credible use of force can be essential to restraining violence and advancing peace.
Newsom’s attack highlights a sharp contrast between Trump’s assertive strategy of peace through strength and Democratic leaders’ portrayal of federal intervention as a threat to civil liberties.
