LOS ANGELES, June 12 – As tensions escalate across major U.S. cities, Los Angeles is preparing for the arrival of U.S. Marines to support law enforcement efforts amid widespread protests against President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration policies. The controversial military deployment has sparked legal action from California officials and ignited a broader national debate over the use of federal force on American streets.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has strongly opposed the move, arguing that it infringes on state authority and further inflames an already volatile situation. A federal court hearing is scheduled in San Francisco, where California will seek a temporary restraining order to block the Marines from engaging in any law enforcement capacity. The goal of the lawsuit is to restore state authority over the National Guard and have the President’s actions ruled illegal.
Federal Presence and Legal Pushback
The Pentagon has confirmed that approximately 700 Marines will be on the ground in Los Angeles by the end of the week, joining an estimated 4,000 National Guard troops already stationed throughout the region. These federal forces have been tasked with protecting federal property and supporting federal agents, particularly those involved in immigration enforcement operations.
The deployment follows a string of immigration raids that have fueled public outrage and street demonstrations. The protests began last Friday and have continued into their sixth day. Though largely peaceful, some incidents have included confrontations between demonstrators and police. In one case, protesters were seen throwing commercial-grade fireworks and rocks at officers. In another, police fired rubber bullets and flashbangs to disperse a crowd near City Hall.
President Trump, defending his decision, stated on social media that the military presence has restored order in the city, claiming Los Angeles would have descended into chaos without the intervention. He praised the National Guard and Marines for their coordination with local law enforcement, stating that the combined effort has allowed the LAPD to regain control.
However, state and local leaders argue otherwise. Officials including Governor Newsom contend that the federal deployment has only deepened public mistrust and intensified the unrest. Critics across the country have described the move as authoritarian and politically motivated, pointing out that it coincides with Trump’s long-standing campaign promises to enforce strict immigration laws.
Street Tensions and Nationwide Demonstrations
On Wednesday night, Los Angeles once again became the epicenter of civil resistance. Crowds in the thousands gathered in downtown, raising their voices against what they believe are unfair immigration measures and the increasing use of military force in policing. While some pockets of protest turned violent, the majority of demonstrators marched peacefully.
Marlene Lopez, a 39-year-old Los Angeles resident, stood among the crowd as flashbang grenades burst nearby. “I’m here because this isn’t just about immigration—it’s about human rights,” she said. “We have to take a stand and refuse to let this continue. If we don’t push back now, it only gets worse.”
So far, law enforcement has made over 400 arrests in Los Angeles since the protests began. In New York, police also detained dozens of demonstrators, with some charged and others receiving court summonses. Protesters have also gathered in other major cities including Chicago, Washington, and San Antonio, amplifying calls for justice and government accountability.
Saturday is expected to mark an even larger nationwide response. Over 1,800 protests are planned across the country, organized by various activist groups. Coinciding with the President’s 79th birthday and a military parade in Washington, D.C., the events are likely to draw massive crowds and media attention. Heavy military equipment, including tanks, is scheduled to appear in the heart of Washington, D.C., as part of the events celebrating 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.
Meanwhile, legal and political disputes continue to escalate. California’s challenge to the federal troop deployment could set a significant precedent for how and when the U.S. military can be used within state borders, particularly in times of civil unrest.
Marines Prepared for De-Escalation Role
The Marines designated for the Los Angeles assignment have finished focused training in managing crowds and reducing tensions, as stated by U.S. Northern Command. Officials emphasized that the Marines are not being deployed to carry out routine policing duties but rather to support federal officers and safeguard federal facilities.
Under Title 10 of the U.S. Code, the Marines are authorized to temporarily detain individuals under certain conditions—specifically if they interfere with immigration operations or pose an immediate threat to safety. However, military leaders have clarified that the troops will not engage in law enforcement unless absolutely necessary.
Major General Scott Sherman, who is overseeing the combined force of National Guard and Marines, stated that although the Marines will carry live ammunition, their rifles will remain unloaded unless circumstances drastically change. “This is about deterrence and support, not confrontation,” he said.
Despite these assurances, the presence of federal troops in American neighborhoods remains a deeply divisive issue. Civil rights groups warn that the line between maintaining order and suppressing dissent is dangerously thin, especially when military personnel are involved.