President Trump escalates federal response to LA immigration protests, deploying 700 Marines and backing the arrest of California Governor Gavin Newsom in a historic clash over state sovereignty.
Trump Deploys Marines, Backs Arrest of Newsom in California Showdown
By M Muzamil Shami - June 10, 2025
Trump Deploys Marines to LA, Backs Arrest of California Governor
LOS ANGELES / WASHINGTON (June 9, 2025) – President Donald Trump took unprecedented steps by deploying 700 U.S. Marines to Los Angeles amid immigration protests, while calling on border czar Tom Homan to consider arresting Governor Gavin Newsom, intensifying the federal-state showdown.
What’s Going On?
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Trump ordered active-duty Marines to support National Guard troops in safeguarding federal facilities during protests sparked by ICE raids in Southern California
This is a rare move under Title 10, bypassing state control, though Trump has not invoked the Insurrection Act, which would open the door for direct law enforcement duties
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Meanwhile, Trump publicly stated backing for arresting Newsom, allegedly for obstruction
Why It Matters
Federal Power vs. State Sovereignty
California has sued the federal government, arguing the deployment violates state authority and infringes on the Constitution
Political Sparks Fly
Newsom called the move “an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism.” Trump countered by portraying protesters as insurrectionists and criticized Newsom’s governance
The Background to This Flashpoint
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Protests erupted after ICE conducted raids, arresting dozens in Los Angeles; demonstrators clashed with police, set vehicles ablaze, and used paintballs and eggs
An initial deployment of 2,000 National Guard followed by another 2,000 was announced; Trump's Marine battalion adds to escalating federal response
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Similar protests appeared in New York, San Francisco, Philadelphia, as the issue reverberates nationally
Legal & Historical Context
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Presidents haven’t deployed active-duty troops against domestic unrest since the Insurrection Act was used in 1992 after the Rodney King riots
Trump’s Title 10 deployment is legally controversial but technically allowed during “rebellion or danger thereof”
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Legal experts say bypassing state consent raises serious federalism and civil liberties concerns .
FAQs:
Q1: Why is Trump sending Marines to L.A.?
A1: To protect federal property and personnel during immigration raid protests—a strategic escalation amid growing unrest .
Q2: Can he do this without the governor’s permission?
A2: Yes—under Title 10, Section 12406, the president can deploy troops without state approval in cases of rebellion or invasion
Q3: Has the governor responded?
A3: Yes—Newsom strongly condemned it, calling it unconstitutional and “authoritarian”, and has filed a lawsuit against the federal government
Q4: Is the Insurrection Act in play?
A4: Not currently—Trump is using Title 10 only. The Insurrection Act, which permits active duty troops in civilian law enforcement, hasn’t been invoked
What do you think—did the president cross the line, or did California lose control?
Comment below to share your view on federal vs state authority!
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