In response to planned protests against ICE in San Antonio, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced the deployment of the Texas National Guard to various parts of the state to maintain “peace and order.” In a post on social media platform X, Abbott emphasized the legality of peaceful protests but warned that any acts of violence against individuals or property would result in arrests. He stated, “Peaceful protest is legal. Harming a person or property is illegal & will lead to arrest.”
During a televised address, California Governor Gavin Newsom fiercely criticized former President Donald Trump, accusing him of disregarding laws and traditions that uphold democracy. Newsom remarked, “California may be first, but it clearly won’t end here,” suggesting that other states could follow suit and that democracy itself is at risk. He condemned Trump's actions, particularly his pardoning of those involved in the January 6 Capitol riots, stating, “What more evidence do we need than January 6th?”
In light of escalating tensions, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has implemented a curfew from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. local time. This decision aims to curb the actions of “bad actors” taking advantage of the situation. Bass stated, “Law enforcement will arrest individuals who break the curfew, and you will be prosecuted.”
U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer has denied Newsom’s request for an emergency ruling to block the deployment of federal troops in Los Angeles. The Trump administration argues that Newsom’s lawsuit is “legally meritless” and that blocking troop deployment would jeopardize the safety of Homeland Security personnel. Meanwhile, Newsom and California Attorney General Rob Bonta are seeking to halt the deployment, claiming it is unlawful as there is “no invasion or rebellion” in the city.
Interim Defense Department comptroller Bryn MacDonnell informed Congress that the estimated cost for sending federal troops to Los Angeles is around $134 million, primarily for temporary duty assignments, travel, housing, and food. House Speaker Mike Johnson has criticized Newsom’s handling of the protests, suggesting he should be “tarred and feathered.” Newsom retorted that Johnson’s comments reflect a desire to revert the country to outdated norms.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Los Angeles would be “burning to the ground” if he hadn’t deployed the National Guard. He also linked the protests to earlier wildfires, criticizing city and state permitting processes for being “disastrously bungled up.” Approximately 700 active-duty Marines from the 2nd Battalion of the 7th Marines Regiment are expected to arrive in Los Angeles shortly, working alongside 1,700 California National Guard members already present.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the incident involving Australian reporter Lauren Tomasi, who was injured by a rubber bullet while covering the protests. Albanese described the incident as “horrific” and raised concerns with the Trump administration regarding media safety.
While the San Francisco Police Department reported that thousands participated in peaceful demonstrations, there were instances of vandalism and arrests as some protesters deviated from the main group. Authorities reported multiple arrests as tensions escalated in various cities, including San Francisco, where at least 60 individuals were taken into custody.
Bonta is filing a lawsuit against Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, alleging that the deployment of the National Guard is a misuse of presidential authority aimed at inciting chaos for political gain. He argues that this move infringes on California’s sovereignty and emergency response capabilities.
In a recent interview, Newsom challenged the Trump administration, urging them to arrest him if they disagreed with his actions. He criticized the federal government for escalating tensions and indicated that California would take legal action to prevent further deployment of troops.
The situation in Los Angeles and across California continues to evolve, with both state and federal authorities taking strong stances. As protests persist, the deployment of the National Guard raises questions about legality, state sovereignty, and the balance of power in times of civil unrest.
