ISLAMABAD (PEN) : President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of approximately 700 U.S. Marines to Los Angeles as immigration-related protests across Southern California stretch into their fourth day. The federal action comes alongside the mobilization of an additional 2,000 National Guard troops—doubling the initial deployment announced earlier.
According to a senior military official, the Marines’ presence will be limited to securing federal properties and personnel. The administration has not invoked the Insurrection Act, which would authorize the military to perform civilian law enforcement duties.
State Pushback: California Sues Over Deployment
In response, California has filed a lawsuit against the federal government, alleging the move violates state sovereignty and exceeds executive authority. Governor Gavin Newsom labeled the deployment “unprecedented” and “unwarranted,” adding that the action represents a “dangerous escalation” by the White House.
“This level of escalation is completely unwarranted, uncalled for, and unprecedented,” Newsom’s press office posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The legal confrontation deepens the already fraught tensions between the Trump administration and Democratic-led states over immigration enforcement and federal authority.
Escalating Protests and Civil Unrest
Protests erupted after a wave of immigration raids throughout Los Angeles and other parts of Southern California. Demonstrators gathered outside a federal detention center, demanding the release of detained migrants and an end to aggressive federal enforcement.
The protests have, at times, turned violent. Law enforcement officials reported five officers injured during confrontations with demonstrators. Several self-driving vehicles were torched, and protesters hurled bottles and concrete at officers. A Trump supporter was reportedly assaulted, and unknown individuals fired paintballs at federal buildings.
Similar demonstrations have been reported in major U.S. cities including New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.
Trump Defends Military Deployment
President Trump defended the decision to send military support, stating Monday, “We had no choice. We had to prevent chaos.” The president has made immigration a central pillar of his second-term agenda, calling for sweeping enforcement actions and mass deportations. His administration has set a controversial target of 3,000 arrests per day of undocumented migrants.
Critics argue that such goals are excessive and raise serious concerns about due process and civil liberties. Nevertheless, Trump has doubled down, expressing support for the arrest of those who interfere with enforcement efforts—including state officials. “I would do it if I were Tom. I think it’s great,” he said, backing a comment by former immigration chief Tom Homan regarding Governor Newsom’s potential arrest.
Legal and Historical Precedent in Question
The use of active-duty military personnel in response to civil unrest is extremely rare and historically sensitive. Constitutional experts note that without an Insurrection Act declaration, the military is barred from engaging in domestic policing. The last such declaration occurred during the 1992 Los Angeles riots.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell expressed concern about the sudden deployment. “The deployment presents a significant logistical and operational challenge,” he said, adding that his department had not been formally notified of the Marines’ arrival.
Legal scholars argue the unfolding situation could set a precedent for future federal-state power conflicts, particularly regarding the use of military forces in domestic settings.
A Test of Presidential Power
As legal proceedings begin and protests persist, the situation in Los Angeles has become a defining test of presidential authority during times of civil unrest. Advocates and civil rights groups have pledged to monitor the federal response closely, warning of potential overreach.
“We’re witnessing a pivotal moment,” said one constitutional law professor at UCLA. “How this plays out could reshape the balance of state and federal power in a post-pandemic America already deeply divided over immigration and national identity.”
For now, protesters in Los Angeles and across the country vow to continue demonstrations, demanding humane immigration policy and accountability for federal enforcement tactics.
