On Sunday, the New York Times editorial board criticized President Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard in Los Angeles, arguing that it was the “real emergency” in the anti-ICE riots that had escalated over the weekend. The editors claimed that the move created more chaos instead of preventing it, and questioned the legality and appropriateness of using military forces in domestic unrest. They emphasized that local law enforcement had kept the protests under control, raising doubts about the necessity of the National Guard’s involvement.
The editorial board pointed out that deploying the National, Guard is typically for natural disasters, civil disturbances, or public health crises, but there was no indication that these conditions were present in Los Angeles. They warned that the Trump administration’s use of the military in domestic affairs was blurring the legal boundaries, and called for Congress to address the lack of clarity in the law. The Times editors argued that the current approach risked escalating tensions instead of resolving them, undermining the principles of law and order.
Meanwhile, the FBI is investigating a suspect accused of assaulting a federal officer and damaging government property during the anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles. The suspect allegedly threw rocks at law enforcement vehicles on Alondra Blvd., injuring a federal officer and damaging government assets. The Los Angeles Police Department declared an “unlawful assembly” as protesters failed to disperse in downtown areas. The LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell described the anti-ICE riots and violence against law enforcement as “disgusting,” expressing deep concern over the situation.
California Governor Gavin Newsom also criticized Trump for deploying the National Guard, accusing him of making the situation worse. Newsom argued that local law enforcement had not needed assistance and that Trump’s decision had resulted in further destabilization. The governor emphasized the need for additional law enforcement to clean up the aftermath of Trump’s actions. Senator Cory Booker joined the criticism, calling the riots “peaceful” and slamming Trump’s use of the National Guard to quell the protests.