Federal Troops Sent to Control Unrest
President Donald Trump has ordered 2,000 National Guard troops to be deployed in Los Angeles after widespread protests erupted over recent immigration enforcement actions. Trump said local leaders had failed to maintain order and promised that the federal government would take strong action, tweeting: “We will solve the problem, RIOTS & LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!!”
California Governor Opposes Move
Governor Gavin Newsom strongly criticized the deployment, calling it “purposefully inflammatory” and warned that it could increase tensions instead of easing them. “This is the wrong mission and will erode public trust,” Newsom said in a statement.
Protests Sparked by Immigration Raids
The protests began on Friday after immigration agents reportedly detained dozens of people across Los Angeles. Demonstrations grew larger by Saturday, with police using tear gas and flash-bang grenades to try and disperse crowds. Several protesters were arrested.
Deployment Draws Mixed Reactions
While some support the federal response, others, including a senior law enforcement official, say bringing in the National Guard may worsen the situation by provoking more unrest.