California’s governor blasts federal decision to federalize the Guard to quell demonstrations over recent ICE raids, warning the move risks escalating tensions and undermining local authority
Sacramento, California (Times Media Service) – National Guard deployment amid ICE protests has drawn fierce criticism from Governor Gavin Newsom, who on June 8 denounced Washington’s decision to federalize 2,000 troops in Los Angeles as “purposefully inflammatory” and warned it would “only escalate tensions.” The deployment followed two days of clashes between demonstrators and federal agents during sweeping immigration raids that detained roughly 150 undocumented residents.
Federalization Sparks Historic Clash
When President Trump invoked a seldom-used 1871 statute to federalize California’s Guard, it marked the first use of that authority against a governor’s will since 1965. The order, citing “incidents of violence and disorder” around ICE operations, authorized up to 2,000 troops—some on the ground within hours—to support law enforcement at key federal buildings and deter further unrest.
Washington officials framed the deployment as necessary to protect officers after video emerged of rock-throwing and assaults on ICE agents. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth even threatened to dispatch active-duty Marines from nearby Camp Pendleton “if the situation worsens,” underscoring the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on protester violence.
Newsom’s Swift Rebuke
Governor Newsom publicly condemned the move in a series of posts and statements late Saturday, calling it a “complete overreaction” and urging protesters to remain peaceful. “LA authorities are able to access law enforcement assistance at a moment’s notice,” he said, stressing close coordination between city, county, and state agencies with “no unmet need” requiring federal intervention. He added that the Pentagon’s threats to send Marines against American civilians were “deranged behavior.” He further suggested California might consider financial responses, noting the state contributes far more in federal taxes than it receives in return.
Roots of the Demonstrations
The unrest erupted after ICE-led raids across Los Angeles on June 6 and 7 aimed to apprehend individuals with outstanding deportation orders. In total, agents detained about 150 people, prompting community groups and immigrant-advocacy organizations to call for mass mobilizations. While many demonstrations remained peaceful—with families and faith leaders marching downtown—others turned confrontational as lines of heavily armored agents faced off against protesters hurling projectiles. Local police largely held back, leaving federal officers to manage the crowds.
Local Leaders Push Back
Mayor Karen Bass and LAPD Chief Michel Moore also criticized the federal deployment. Bass pointed out that when President Trump tweeted praise for the Guard’s “job well done,” the troops had not yet reached the city. Moore emphasized that city law enforcement had handled earlier protests without incident and warned that the Guard’s presence risked inflaming an already tense situation. Dozens of protesters were injured by rubber bullets and stun grenades, and at least 12 arrests were reported overnight.
Political Fallout and Reactions
Democratic leaders nationwide joined Newsom in decrying the federal action as an overreach. Senator Bernie Sanders termed it a “stunt to stoke division,” while Representative Nanette Barragán accused the administration of treating California “like an occupied territory.” Conversely, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the deployment as lawful and necessary to uphold order. The incident has reignited debates over presidential authority under the Insurrection Act and the proper limits on using military forces in domestic disputes.
What’s Next?
With tensions still high, state and city officials say they will pursue legal options to reverse the Guard’s federalization. California’s attorney general has already notified the Pentagon of potential litigation, arguing the president exceeded his statutory powers. Meanwhile, organizers have scheduled more rallies this week at both City Hall and LAX. As both sides prepare for renewed confrontations, the conflict over National Guard deployment amid ICE protests is poised to deepen the broader struggle between federal and state powers over immigration enforcement.
Stephanie Ramirez / California Contributor (Times Media Service)
Native Californian, she sees California’s importance & aims to enhance its quality and enjoyment for all.
sramirez@timesmediaservice.com
