California governor says ‘democracy under assault’ by Trump as military intervenes in LA protests
In a moment of escalating political tension, California Governor Gavin Newsom has issued a dire warning that “democracy is under assault” following President Donald Trump’s controversial move to deploy federal military forces in Los Angeles. The decision, made in response to ongoing protests and civil unrest triggered by intensified immigration enforcement, has sparked legal challenges, public outcry, and concerns over federal overreach.
The deployment marks a dramatic flashpoint in the growing standoff between the federal government and Democratic-led states, with Newsom calling it a “dangerous precedent that threatens the foundational principles of American democracy.”
Trump Orders Troops into LA Without State Consent
The situation in Los Angeles intensified earlier this week when President Trump, citing threats to federal buildings and immigration enforcement personnel, authorized the deployment of approximately 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 U.S. Marines into the city. The move was made without Governor Newsom’s request or approval—an action that has not occurred since the civil rights era of the 1960s.
Speaking at a press conference in Sacramento, Newsom condemned the federal intervention as “an abuse of presidential power and an attack on state sovereignty.”
“We cannot and will not allow the use of military force to silence dissent or intimidate the people of California,” Newsom stated. “This is not just about California—it’s about the health of our democracy as a whole.”
Protests Sparked by ICE Raids and Immigration Crackdown
The unrest began when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), backed by federal agents, conducted a series of aggressive raids in immigrant-heavy neighborhoods in Los Angeles. These operations led to dozens of arrests and prompted widespread public protests, many of which have remained peaceful but occasionally turned confrontational.
Protesters accuse the federal government of targeting immigrant communities unjustly and violating human rights. Signs reading “No troops in our streets” and “Defend our democracy” were common sights at rallies across the city.
By Wednesday night, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported over 190 arrests, mostly for violating curfews and failure to disperse during demonstrations in downtown LA.
Legal Challenges and Constitutional Questions
Governor Newsom, backed by several state lawmakers and civil liberties groups, has filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking an emergency injunction to block the military deployment. The lawsuit argues that the president’s actions violate the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts the use of the U.S. military for domestic law enforcement purposes without Congressional or state authorization.
Civil rights organizations, including the ACLU and Human Rights Watch, have also raised red flags about the militarization of protest response, warning that such measures could set a “chilling precedent” for federal intervention in states’ civil matters.
“If this goes unchallenged, what’s stopping a future president from sending troops into any state under the vague pretense of public safety?” asked UC Berkeley constitutional law professor Dr. Elaine Torres.
Local Leaders React
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who was not informed in advance about the federal action, expressed frustration at the lack of communication from Washington.
“This is not cooperation; this is occupation,” Bass said during a city council briefing. “We can and will manage our city. We need resources, not rifles.”
City officials have attempted to balance public safety with respect for the right to protest, enacting temporary curfews while simultaneously expressing support for non-violent demonstrations.
A Nation Watching Closely
The conflict has drawn national attention, with governors from other Democratic-led states expressing solidarity with California. New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker both issued statements criticizing the federal government’s use of force, warning that similar interventions could occur in their states if left unchallenged.
Senator Bernie Sanders took to social media, tweeting:
“Deploying the military against civilians is authoritarianism, plain and simple. We must speak out.”
Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers have largely backed Trump’s decision, framing it as necessary to restore “law and order” amid growing unrest.
The Road Ahead: Tensions Set to Rise
A federal judge in San Francisco has scheduled a hearing next week to review California’s request for an emergency injunction. Until then, military units remain stationed at key locations in Los Angeles, including the federal courthouse, ICE headquarters, and several immigration detention centers.
Governor Newsom has called for “calm, unity, and courage” in the face of what he describes as a constitutional crisis. He urged Californians to protest peacefully and continue engaging in the democratic process.
“What we are witnessing is not just a battle for control of Los Angeles. It is a battle for the soul of our democracy.”
Final Thoughts
As federal troops walk the streets of one of America’s largest cities and protests show no signs of fading, the California crisis represents a turning point in the national debate over federal authority and civil rights. With court battles looming and public outrage growing, the events in Los Angeles may shape not only the political climate of 2025 but the very nature of American governance for years to come.
