CliffNotes
- LA protests erupt as Trump deploys troops
- Protests began on Friday over Trump’s immigration crackdown
- So far, 300 National Guard troops deployed as Newsom argues with Trump
LA Protests Erupt as Trump Deploys Troops
What happened
Downtown Los Angeles saw chaos as protests against Trump’s immigration crackdown escalated. With over 300 National Guard troops deployed—without the governor’s request—clashes broke out, self-driving cars were torched, and police used rubber bullets and tear gas. Trump inflamed tensions by declaring, “if they spit, we hit,” while LA officials accused him of provoking unrest.
What next
California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the federal intervention as a “dictator move” and demanded troop withdrawal. Trump fired back, mocking state leaders and vowing to expand military presence. With protests continuing and over 100 immigration arrests already made, the standoff over federal versus state power is far from over.