Trump Administration Deploys Thousands National Guard Marines Amid Widespread Immigration Protests, Clashes in California

President Donald Trump has vowed not to allow "mob rule" in the United States amid widespread protests against his harsh immigration policies, particularly following Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles. The unrest has led to a rare deployment of federal troops, including US Marines and thousands of National Guard soldiers, overriding state objections and prompting criticism from California's Democratic leaders, Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who describe the move as politically motivated and dictatorial. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the administration's response, accusing Newsom and Bass of failing their duties and "fanning the flames" by demonizing ICE officers. Trump has labeled protesters as "animals" and "paid insurrectionists," alleging without evidence that some are equipped with professional anti-riot gear and suggesting an investigation into their funding. The protests have been mostly peaceful but included violent incidents such as burning self-driving taxis and stone-pelting at police, which authorities have met with tear gas and other crowd-control measures. The situation remains tense as the Trump administration emphasizes its commitment to law and order, framing the federal intervention as necessary to prevent Los Angeles from "burning to the ground."