California Governor slams federal takeover of state troops after immigration raids spark protests in Los Angeles
Gavin Newsom condemns National Guard deploymentSacramento, California (Times Media Service) – Governor Gavin Newsom on Saturday denounced President Trump’s decision to deploy 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles without state consent, calling the move “purposefully inflammatory” after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and ensuing protests rocked local neighborhoods.
Federal Troops Deployed Over State Objections
On the night of June 7, President Trump invoked a rarely used federal provision to mobilize California’s National Guard under federal authority. Approximately 2,000 troops in tactical gear arrived in downtown Los Angeles by June 8, marking the first time in six decades that a president has nationalized a state guard force without a governor’s approval. The Trump administration justified the measure by citing violent clashes between ICE agents and demonstrators over recent immigration raids. Governor Newsom, however, maintained that local law enforcement was fully capable of ensuring public safety and accused the White House of staging a show of force.
ICE Raids Spark Protests in Paramount and Beyond
The deployment followed coordinated ICE operations on June 6 targeting undocumented workers in Paramount and surrounding communities. Federal officers arrested more than 60 individuals suspected of violating immigration laws. Word of the raids spread quickly, and by the next day hundreds of residents gathered in protest—some setting barricades and igniting fires near federal vehicles. Local sheriff’s deputies made dozens of arrests as officers used non-lethal crowd-control tactics. ICE officials insisted the raids were legal and necessary to disrupt alleged cartel-backed smuggling rings.
Newsom’s Strong Reaction and Call for Peaceful Protest
Governor Newsom took to social media late Saturday, calling the federal takeover “purposefully inflammatory” and warning it would “only escalate tensions.” He urged Angelenos to continue voicing their objections peacefully. “LA authorities are able to access law enforcement assistance at a moment’s notice,” Newsom posted, emphasizing close coordination with local and county leaders. The governor also stressed that no state-level resources were exhausted and that the show of military force risked deepening community divisions.
Local Leaders and Experts Sound Alarms
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass echoed Newsom’s concerns, condemning any violence while criticizing the federal action as “unnecessary and political.” Legal scholars noted that the unilateral federalization sets a troubling precedent for state-federal relations. Professor Maria Sanchez of UCLA Law called it “an overreach that blurs the line between domestic law enforcement and military intervention.” Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the move, accusing California Democrats of “abdication” and insisting federal troops were essential to safeguard ICE personnel.
Historical Context and Legal Debate
Experts pointed out that the last comparable federal mobilization occurred during civil rights unrest in the 1960s and the 1992 Los Angeles riots. Under 10 U.S.C. § 12406, the president may federalize guard units to address “rebellion” or to enforce federal laws. California officials, however, question whether the recent protests constitute a legitimate “rebellion” and warn that invoking military force against domestic demonstrators could undermine civil liberties. Court challenges from state attorneys general appear likely in the coming days.
What’s Next for Los Angeles and Beyond
As National Guard troops patrol key federal facilities, ICE has signaled intentions to continue enforcement operations in Southern California. Community organizers, meanwhile, are planning further peaceful demonstrations to protest what they see as harsh immigration tactics. At the state level, Newsom’s administration is preparing legal action to regain control of the Guard. Political analysts predict the clash will become a rallying point in the upcoming midterm elections, highlighting sharp divides over immigration policy and executive authority.
Stephanie Ramirez / California Contributor (Times Media Service)
Native Californian, she sees California’s importance & aims to enhance its quality and enjoyment for all.
sramirez@timesmediaservice.com
