Trump Deploys Marines and National Guard to Los Angeles Amid Immigration Protests

Watan-On Monday night, the U.S. military announced the deployment of approximately 700 Marines in the Los Angeles area to protect federal buildings and personnel. According to U.S. Northern Command, the Second Battalion of the 7th Marine Regiment, based in California, will not engage directly with protesters, despite intensifying demonstrations against the Biden administration’s immigration policies.

This move marks a significant escalation by President Donald Trump, who was recently asked whether Marines would be sent to Los Angeles. He replied: “The situation is under control. We’ll see what happens.”

CNBC reported that around 700 Marines had been mobilized temporarily, pending the arrival of more National Guard reinforcements. Trump’s decision to activate the National Guard in California without the governor’s request is the first of its kind since 1965, when troops were used to protect—not confront—demonstrators.

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized Trump’s decision on X, calling it the “disturbed fantasy of a dictatorial president.” He added: “This is not American. Marines served honorably in wars to defend democracy. They should not be used on U.S. soil against fellow Americans.”

Meanwhile, the Pentagon announced the deployment of an additional 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated on X that this was to support federal immigration and customs enforcement operations and ensure the safety of federal law enforcement.

Trump defended bypassing Governor Newsom, saying he had no choice and that the “rebellion was massive.” He praised the National Guard’s performance and said he would consider deploying even more troops if necessary. Trump also criticized Newsom, calling him incompetent and blaming him for allegedly allowing 21 million undocumented migrants into the U.S.—a figure far exceeding official estimates.

The protests, which erupted over the weekend, were triggered by Trump’s harsh immigration policies. In a Monday post on Truth Social, Trump claimed his decision to send the National Guard saved the city from “total destruction.”

California officials, mostly Democrats, have accused Trump of inflaming unrest through unilateral federal actions. Trump has labeled the protesters as insurrectionists. According to Los Angeles police, some demonstrators threw concrete and bottles at officers. Several gatherings were declared illegal, and downtown was placed under tightened security.

Elsewhere, Trump was asked about a rumored conflict with Elon Musk, stemming from Musk’s criticism of a federal budget bill. Trump replied he hadn’t considered contacting Musk but speculated that Musk probably wanted to speak with him. When asked if Musk had used drugs inside the White House, Trump said, “I don’t know. I hope not. I don’t think so.” Regarding the use of Starlink at the White House, Trump stated, “We’re not planning to cut it. It’s a good service.”

Trump also teased a military parade set for June 14 in Washington, D.C., saying: “Jets will fly, tanks will roll, thousands of soldiers will march. It’s going to be a beautiful day.”