Trump Federalizes National Guard Amidst Unrest in Los Angeles Over ICE Raids

In early June 2025, Los Angeles became the focal point of nationwide tensions over immigration enforcement when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a series of raids targeting undocumented immigrants. These operations led to widespread protests, some escalating into violent confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement. In response, President Donald Trump federalized the California National Guard, deploying approximately 4,100 troops and 700 Marines to the city without the consent of Governor Gavin Newsom. This marked the first such federalization without state approval in over six decades, igniting significant legal and political debates regarding federal authority, state rights, and the use of military forces in domestic law enforcement.

On June 6, 2025, ICE agents conducted multiple raids across Los Angeles, including locations in the Fashion District, a clothing wholesaler, and a Home Depot in Westlake. These operations resulted in the arrest of over 100 individuals suspected of immigration violations. The raids sparked immediate protests, with demonstrators clashing with federal agents and local law enforcement. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported that some protesters threw concrete at officers, leading to the use of less-lethal munitions and a citywide tactical alert.

In response to the escalating unrest, President Trump invoked Title 10, Section 12406 of the U.S. Code to federalize the California National Guard. This statute allows the President to deploy the National Guard in situations of insurrection or when local authorities are unable to enforce the law. Approximately 4,100 National Guard troops and 700 Marines were deployed to Los Angeles, marking the first such federalization without state consent in six decades.

Governor Gavin Newsom filed a lawsuit challenging the federalization, arguing it violated state sovereignty and the Tenth Amendment. A federal appeals court temporarily upheld the President's authority under Title 10, Section 12406, allowing the deployment to continue. The court emphasized that while the President has the authority to deploy the National Guard under certain conditions, such decisions remain subject to judicial review.

The deployment has ignited significant political and social debates. Vice President JD Vance blamed California Democrats, including Governor Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass, for inciting violent protests through their sanctuary city policies. Vance's remarks included a controversial misnaming of Senator Alex Padilla as "Jose Padilla," prompting backlash and accusations of inflammatory rhetoric.

Local organizations and public figures have also responded. The Los Angeles Dodgers pledged $1 million to support families affected by the ICE raids, collaborating with city and community organizations to distribute aid. The team also denied ICE agents access to their stadium’s parking lot, countering claims of cooperation.

The federalization of the National Guard without state consent is unprecedented in recent history, with the last occurrence over six decades ago. This action has raised questions about the balance of power between federal and state authorities, the role of the military in domestic law enforcement, and the potential erosion of civil liberties. Legal scholars and political analysts have expressed concerns about the implications for democratic norms and the potential for setting a precedent for future federal interventions in state affairs.

The deployment of federal troops to Los Angeles in response to immigration-related protests has ignited a complex legal and political debate. As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the ongoing legal challenges, the response of local communities, and the broader implications for federal-state relations and civil liberties in the United States.