US deploys Marines to Los Angeles as Trump backs arrest of California governor

Marines Deployed Amid Escalating Protests

  • U.S. Northern Command announced a battalion of about 700 Marines will temporarily support National Guard troops in Los Angeles.
  • The deployment is to protect federal property and personnel until more National Guard troops arrive.
  • The Trump administration has not invoked the Insurrection Act, so Marines are limited to support roles.

Political Tensions and Legal Challenges

  • California Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta are suing the Trump administration, accusing it of exceeding its authority.
  • President Trump publicly supported the idea of arresting Governor Newsom for obstructing immigration enforcement.
  • White House and congressional Republicans argue the protests justify passing a new border-security bill.

Scenes from Los Angeles

  • Hundreds of protesters have gathered outside detention centers and federal buildings since Friday.
  • Demonstrators carry signs, play music, and chant in support of detained individuals.
  • National Guard and law enforcement have a heavy presence around key federal sites.

Quotes

“The level of escalation is completely unwarranted, uncalled for, and unprecedented,” Newsom’s press office said on X.

“I would do it if I were Tom. I think it’s great,” Trump said, supporting his border czar’s suggestion to arrest Newsom.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt posted: “We need the One Big, Beautiful Bill to pass ASAP!”

Background and Context

  • Marines are rarely deployed for domestic policing; previous instances include Hurricane Katrina and 9/11.
  • The last use of the Insurrection Act for direct police action in California was during the 1992 Los Angeles riots.
  • Trump has pledged record deportations and a daily goal of 3,000 migrant arrests by ICE.

Conclusion

Democrats and activists continue to rally against the deployment, calling it an abuse of presidential power. Additional protests are planned in cities nationwide as the legal battle unfolds.

Source: Reuters

People attend a rally against federal immigration sweeps, in downtown Los Angeles, California, U.S. June 9, 2025. REUTERS/David Ryder
Image: David Ryder/Reuters

For background on the Insurrection Act, see this explainer.