California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared that “democracy is under assault” following President Donald Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard to Los Angeles without state consent. The unprecedented move came amid federal immigration raids that have sparked widespread protests across the city beginning June 6.
In a scathing address, Newsom accused Trump of turning Los Angeles into a “military dragnet,” claiming the administration’s crackdown extends far beyond criminal targets. Among the detained, he said, are dishwashers, seamstresses, and even a nine-months pregnant US citizen. ICE agents have reportedly operated near schools and outside retail stores like Home Depot.
The tension between state and federal authority has escalated sharply, with Newsom warning that what is happening in California could spread across the country. “California may be first–but it clearly won’t end here,” he said, urging other governors to take note of the federal government’s aggressive stance.
Historically a city with a strong immigrant background and cultural influence, Los Angeles decided enough was enough of these sweeping raids and began mass protests to stop ICE from entering the city in an effort to protect residents. Curious to know more? Then click on.