Federal Troops Deployed to Los Angeles Amid Immigration Protests

Protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles have triggered a significant response from the Trump administration, which deployed thousands of National Guard members and Marines to the city despite the absence of a formal request from California's governor or legislature. Experts, including retired Brigadier General Michael McDaniel, note that while the president has authority under the Insurrection Act to use military force domestically, this act has not been invoked, making the military's current role largely limited to protecting federal buildings. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies, including the Los Angeles Police Department, have been criticized for using excessive force against mostly peaceful protesters, deploying tear gas, stun grenades, and projectiles, and even targeting journalists, raising concerns about violations of use-of-force policies and potential injuries or deaths. The situation has sparked a political clash between President Trump, who is steadfast in his approach, and California Governor Gavin Newsom, highlighting broader tensions over immigration enforcement and civil rights. Legal and security experts caution that the federal government's militarized intervention risks overstepping constitutional boundaries and may exacerbate community tensions. Videos and reports continue to document the crackdown, fueling ongoing debates about the appropriate limits of presidential power and law enforcement conduct during protests.