Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for their handling of violent riots, suggesting they have not adequately protected ICE agents and local citizens. He claimed that former President Trump is remaining out of the limelight as he does his job, defending his administration’s actions.
During a tense exchange with Representative Pete Aguilar of California at a House Committee hearing, Hegseth asserted he has the authority to deploy military forces in response to the unrest, which he attributed to attacks on ICE agents amid deportation efforts connected to Trump’s immigration policy.
“The governor of California cannot enforce U.S. law,” Hegseth remarked. “Both the governor and the mayor have not done enough to safeguard their communities. President Trump has stood by our agents, and they take pride in their work.”
Hegseth justified the administration’s intervention, expressing that all Americans have the right to live in secure environments and that ICE agents require the tools to perform their duties effectively. He labeled the violence a lawless response to the agents conducting their work, stating that such actions—like deporting individuals illegally residing in places like Minneapolis and Los Angeles—should not be met with hostility.
Aguilar raised concerns over the legality of deploying National Guard troops under specific regulations, as Trump had sent approximately 2,000 guards and 700 Marines to assist. “What basis is there for this action?” he asked, questioning the authority being invoked. Hegseth countered, suggesting that the presence of mass illegal immigration creates a situation that demands such actions.
Aguilar also pointed out images of soldiers appearing unprepared, sitting on the floor in their uniforms, implying a lack of proper resources. Hegseth defended military preparations, asserting that the welfare and readiness of troops is taken seriously, ensuring they have essential supplies and housing.
Furthermore, Bryn McDonnell, a special assistant to Hegseth, informed the committee that the costs associated with the deployment amount to $134 million, drawn from standard operational budgets. Hegseth also highlighted that the proposed budget for 2026 would reach $961.6 billion, aimed at enhancing military strength, addressing threats from China, and supporting border security efforts, among other initiatives, including a planned salary increase for lower-ranking troops.
