 "Gavin Newsom warns Americans: Trump’s LA troop deployment a blueprint for nationwide crackdown")
California Governor Gavin Newsom has warned that President Donald Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles could be the first step in a broader, military-backed immigration crackdown across the country. Calling the move “dictatorial,” Newsom said it sets a dangerous precedent for other states.
Trump recently ordered nearly 5,000 troops – including National Guard units and Marines—to be sent to Los Angeles. Initially tasked with protecting federal buildings, the troops are now also supporting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers during arrests. Photos released by ICE show National Guard troops standing guard as officers detain individuals.
Newsom criticised the operation, saying the crackdown has gone far beyond targeting criminals. “Dishwashers, gardeners, day labourers, and seamstresses are being detained,” he said. The governor also condemned Trump’s decision to deploy California’s National Guard without his consent—something he argues is legally questionable and constitutionally troubling.
Speaking on the Pod Save America podcast, Newsom warned that Trump is attempting to “operationalise” the partnership between ICE and the military to launch large-scale deportation efforts across the United States.
Legal and civil concerns mount
Concerns are growing over Trump’s deployment of troops in Los Angeles. Governor Newsom has filed a legal challenge, arguing that deploying the California National Guard without state approval is likely unlawful and sets a troubling precedent. While ICE officers conduct the arrests, National Guard troops are authorised only to provide perimeter security and may temporarily detain individuals who attack officers—but they do not have the power to arrest. Legal experts have also voiced alarm, stating that Trump’s emergency declarations lack a clear legal basis, rendering the military deployment unprecedented and potentially unconstitutional.
Protests and public response
Protests sparked by the immigration raids have been largely peaceful during the day, though some unrest has occurred at night in parts of Los Angeles. Demonstrations have since spread to other cities, including New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Austin, and Washington.
Local officials, including the LA police chief, argue that the heavy military presence is escalating tensions and complicating policing efforts. Nevertheless, Trump insists the deployment is necessary to prevent disorder, warning that Los Angeles could “burn to the ground” without federal intervention.
Financial cost and political fallout
The Pentagon estimates the cost of the 60-day troop deployment in LA at $134 million—a figure that has drawn strong criticism from opponents who say the move is an unnecessary escalation.
Newsom has warned that while California may be the first target of such federal action, “it clearly won’t end here.”
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