Amid growing unrest following federal ICE raids in Los Angeles, President Trump has signed a presidential memorandum deploying 2,000 National Guard troops to support law enforcement and restore order. Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, stated the deployment will aid immigration operations and suppress violent protests targeting ICE officials.
The unrest began on June 6 in the Fashion District and other areas when ICE arrested dozens suspected of immigration violations. Protests erupted outside a federal building in Paramount, where crowds hurled concrete and threw firecrackers—prompting federal agents to deploy flash‑bangs and tear gas. At least 44 people, including labor leader David Huerta, were arrested during the clashes.
Homan defended the deployment on Fox News, stating, “We’re already ahead of the game… we’re going to bring the National Guard in tonight … and enforce the law.” Trump echoed his border czar on Truth Social, declaring the federal action necessary after California leaders, Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass, failed to maintain order.
California officials reacted with outrage. Governor Newsom called the move “purposefully inflammatory” and warned it would “only escalate tensions,” stressing that state and local authorities had sufficient resources. Mayor Bass condemned the raids as terrorizing immigrant neighborhoods and defended peaceful protest while denouncing violence.
Federal agencies back the deployment. DHS spokeswoman Kristi Noem warned protesters, “If you lay a hand on a law enforcement officer, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirmed investigators are reviewing violent acts, including rock‑throwing at CBP vehicles.
The situation highlights national divisions over immigration enforcement. Trump officials paint the protests as lawlessness and insurrection, justifying federal intervention under Title 10 authority. Critics warn that military involvement in a sanctuary city may erode community trust and spark further unrest.
