Trump Administration’s Immigration Crackdown Sparks Protests in California
By Nigel Duara and Jeanne Kuang, CalMatters
In an unprecedented move, President Donald Trump has mobilized hundreds of National Guard troops in downtown Los Angeles as part of a sweeping immigration enforcement operation, stirring controversy and protests across the state. This deployment, which includes 700 active-duty Marines, marks the first time a president has federalized troops since 1965 and directly challenges local leaders who vehemently oppose the action.
California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the move, accusing Trump of bypassing legal protocols and infringing on state sovereignty. He announced plans to sue the administration, asserting the need for consultation was ignored during their late-night conversation prior to the troop deployment.
The immigration crackdown coincided with protests in downtown Los Angeles, where demonstrators clashed with law enforcement amidst escalating tensions. Protests intensified following immigration raids that reportedly targeted workers at Ambiance Apparel, leading to panic in the garment worker community. Activists like Marissa Nuncio of the Garment Worker Center organized seminars to educate workers on their rights amidst fears of further raids.
Democratic officials in California are now taking a firmer stance against the Trump administration’s policies, condemning the raids as an "authoritarian assault" on immigrant communities. Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas and Senate leader Mike McGuire have voiced strong opposition, with McGuire labeling the National Guard’s presence as "reeking of fascism."
While the state grapples with a multibillion-dollar budget deficit, recent actions signal a renewed defiance against federal immigration enforcement. With protests and legal battles on the horizon, the conflict between California and the Trump administration intensifies, reflecting a broader clash over immigrant rights and local governance.
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