Cliff Notes
- Tensions are escalating between California‘s political leaders and the federal government, with Governor Gavin Newsom accusing the White House of “sowing chaos” amid immigration protests in Los Angeles.
- President Trump ordered the deployment of 2,000 National Guard members to LA, bypassing traditional consultation with state governors.
- Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has put active-duty Marines on “high alert,” prompting concerns from Governor Newsom regarding the potential militarisation against US citizens.
Trump seizes opportunity to deploy federal force in California
The tension on the streets of Los Angeles reflects a widening gulf between California’s political leaders and the federal government.
The state’s Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, accused the White House of “sowing chaos” as “an excuse to escalate”.
His comments came after President Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, confirmed their intention to deploy the National Guard.
Presidents usually roll out the National Guard in consultation with state governors. Not this time.
Donald Trump seized the opportunity to use federal force – ordering 2,000 guardsmen on to the streets.
Anger on streets of LA as clashes break out between National Guard and protesters
