President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of approximately 700 U.S. Marines to Los Angeles to support National Guard operations in response to ongoing protests over federal immigration enforcement actions.
The Marines, primarily from the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Division based at Twentynine Palms, California, are being mobilized to assist approximately 2,100 California National Guard troops already deployed to the city.
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The protests, which began Friday, June 6, 2025, followed a series of aggressive ICE raids in Los Angeles and nearby Paramount.
The protests have since escalated and included reports of clashes with law enforcement, with some protesters throwing rocks, blocking highways, and setting vehicles ablaze.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the violence but criticized the deployment of federal troops as a “deliberate attempt to create disorder and chaos in our city.”
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California Governor Gavin Newsom called the move “unlawful” and announced the state’s intent to sue the Trump administration, arguing that the federalization of the California National Guard without state consent violates the U.S. Constitution.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the deployment, stating on X that the Marines and National Guard are necessary to protect federal agents and facilities amid “increased threats.”
President Trump, speaking to reporters, claimed the situation in Los Angeles was “heading in the right direction” but warned that he would consider invoking the Insurrection Act if protests escalate further.