Tensions remain high in Los Angeles after several days of violent protests sparked by aggressive immigration raids conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in predominantly Latino neighborhoods. The unrest has resulted in dozens of arrests, widespread disruption, and a controversial military deployment ordered by President Donald Trump.
Protests Sparked by Federal Raids
Demonstrations began on Friday after reports emerged that ICE had arrested over 100 undocumented immigrants in coordinated operations across the city. A major operation in the Westlake district and another in the heavily Hispanic suburb of Paramount drew particular outrage. ICE confirmed that 44 people were arrested at a job site and an additional 77 in wider LA operations. Rumors of a raid at a Home Depot in Paramount were later denied by officials, though the store became a protest flashpoint.
Violence Erupts Across the City
While initial demonstrations were peaceful, the situation escalated dramatically over the weekend. Protesters shut down the 101 Freeway, set self-driving cars ablaze, and clashed with police outside key federal buildings. Downtown LA was declared an “unlawful assembly” zone after police accused protesters of throwing incendiary devices. Officers in riot gear responded with flash-bang grenades and pepper spray.
The federal building in downtown LA, reportedly holding ICE detainees, became a central protest site. On Saturday, ICE claimed more than 1,000 demonstrators surrounded and attacked the building.
In Paramount, National Guard troops were deployed to protect businesses, and tear gas was used to disperse crowds. Police reported 29 arrests on Saturday and 27 more on Sunday.
Military Deployment Raises Legal and Political Questions
President Trump initially deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles on Saturday, bypassing California’s state leadership. On Monday, he ordered an additional 2,000 troops and 700 marines to the city, citing “rebellion” under a rarely invoked federal statute.
This marks the first time since 1965 that the National Guard has been deployed to California without the governor’s consent. Governor Gavin Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass condemned the move, calling it unconstitutional and inflammatory. The state has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing the deployment violates the 10th Amendment, which protects states’ rights.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta called the military presence an “inflammatory escalation unsupported by conditions on the ground.”
Federal Forces Supporting ICE, DHS Operations
The National Guard has been tasked with securing federal agents from ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), but not with conducting immigration enforcement or routine policing. The LAPD remains responsible for law enforcement in the city.
Despite threats, Trump has not invoked the Insurrection Act, which would allow federal troops to engage in civilian law enforcement — a move he considered during the 2020 racial justice protests.
Controversial Deportation Drive Expands
The recent raids are part of Trump’s broader push to launch what he has called the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. Los Angeles, home to millions of immigrants, has been a major focus. In May, ICE reported the arrest of 239 undocumented migrants during a week-long operation in the city.
Critics say the campaign has gone too far, citing cases of legal residents being detained and deported. The White House has since raised its target to 3,000 ICE arrests per day nationwide.
Public Divided on Trump’s Immigration Policy
Despite the unrest, a CBS News/YouGov poll conducted in early June showed 54% of Americans approve of Trump’s immigration policy, while only 39% support his approach to inflation and 42% approve of his economic plan.
Life Continues in Parts of the City
While protests have roiled parts of downtown, other neighborhoods have remained largely calm. The annual LA Pride parade went ahead as scheduled in closed-off areas, offering a stark contrast to the unrest just miles away.
Mayor Bass reassured the public, saying: “We stand with all Angelenos, no matter where you were born.”
