Los Angeles protests LIVE Updates: As clashes intensify, Trump orders deployment of additional 2,000 National Guard troops
Los Angeles, June 10, 2025 – Tensions in Los Angeles surged this week as protests turned more intense. Former President Donald Trump responded by ordering 2,000 more National Guard troops to the city. The decision sparked outrage from local leaders and ignited a national debate about federal power.
The protests began as peaceful rallies against recent immigration enforcement raids. But they soon grew into larger demonstrations, demanding an end to what many see as targeted crackdowns on immigrant communities.
Protesters Fill the Streets
For four straight nights, thousands of people marched through LA streets. They blocked highways, held candlelight vigils, and surrounded government buildings. Many carried signs reading “No More ICE Raids” and “We Are Not Criminals.”
On Monday night, the situation worsened. Protesters set fires, flipped autonomous cars, and tried to enter a federal building downtown. Police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and flashbangs. Officers arrested over 200 people for unlawful assembly, vandalism, and assault.
Trump Orders More Troops
Trump announced the troop deployment Monday night on his Truth Social platform. The move brought the total number of federally deployed guardsmen in California to more than 4,000. The government also placed 700 Marines on standby to protect federal facilities and agents.
“This is not a protest anymore—it’s a threat to federal security,” Trump posted. “We will protect our agents and restore order.”
This marks the first time in 60 years that a president deployed the National Guard to a state without the governor’s approval. Legal experts say it could set a dangerous precedent.
Local Leaders Oppose the Action
Governor Gavin Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass strongly condemned the decision. In a joint statement, they called the federal move illegal and confirmed that California would sue the government.
“This is not a battlefield, and Los Angeles is not a war zone,” Newsom said. “Californians have a right to protest without military interference.”
Mayor Bass echoed those words, calling the move “a political stunt” and accusing Trump of using LA as a “test case” to suppress dissent.
Legal and Political Fallout
California filed a lawsuit in federal court, arguing that the deployment violates the Constitution’s 10th Amendment. Legal scholars say the case could redefine the limits of federal power over states.
“This deployment breaks with decades of legal precedent,” said Michael Herrera, a law professor at UCLA. “If the courts uphold it, it could reshape federal-state relations in a lasting way.”
The move has also drawn sharp political reactions. Democrats accuse Trump of authoritarian tactics. Many Republicans, on the other hand, claim the deployment is necessary to restore order and protect federal workers.
Voices From the Community
Amid the growing unrest, local residents shared their thoughts and fears. Maria Alvarez, a 28-year-old DACA recipient, said the protests reflect deep frustration.
“We came here to speak up, not to start violence,” she said. “But when they bring in troops, it feels like they see us as a threat, not people.”
Many businesses in areas like Boyle Heights and South LA have suffered. Curfews and street closures disrupted daily life. Shop owners reported broken windows, property damage, and a drop in customers.
What Comes Next
Both sides remain firm. Trump’s team hinted that more troop deployments could follow in other cities with ongoing protests. California’s leaders pledged to fight back in court and through legislation.
Protest groups are also planning more events. A coalition of civil rights organizations announced a citywide march this weekend. They expect tens of thousands to attend.
“This isn’t just about immigration anymore,” said Jamal Carter of Justice Now LA. “It’s about our right to protest and be heard—without military threats.”
