Newsom Responds to Protests and Military Deployment
California Governor Gavin Newsom stated on Tuesday that individuals involved in violence during anti-ICE protests will face legal repercussions. He also harshly criticized President Donald Trump’s “abuse of power” for deploying military forces to manage the protests.
In his address, Newsom mentioned that 220 arrests have already been made in connection with the riots in Los Angeles, and authorities are reviewing video footage to pursue more cases. He expressed gratitude towards those who protested peacefully against deportations and the impact on local migrant workers.
According to Newsom, Trump appears to prefer “escalation” and “more power” over peaceful demonstrations, which he sees as a manipulation of public safety. The governor has initiated steps to block the military’s role in these matters.
The conflict between Newsom and Trump intensified over the president’s decision to send National Guard troops and active-duty Marines into Los Angeles. Newsom asserted that the deployment threatens national sovereignty and only adds to the unrest, arguing that these military personnel are trained for foreign combat, not for law enforcement at home.
“We respect their service, but we don’t want a militarized city,” Newsom emphasized. He accused Trump of targeting vulnerable individuals, stating that such actions do not protect communities but hurt them instead.
In a letter sent last Sunday, Newsom urged the Trump administration to retract the deployment of the National Guard, claiming it should be under California’s command. He also announced a lawsuit against the Trump administration regarding this military action.
Newsom described an ongoing legal challenge to Trump’s military deployment, emphasizing that no one should be apprehended based solely on suspicion or ethnicity. He criticized Trump and his loyalists for fostering division to expand their control and power, recalling the events of January 6 as evidence of Trump’s disregard for lawfulness.
He notably responded to Trump’s endorsement of former ICE chief Tom Homan’s threatening remarks about arresting him. Newsom had previously invited Homan to follow through on his threats, but Homan ultimately backed down.
Concluding his remarks, Newsom warned that Trump’s actions jeopardize not just California but democracy at large. He cautioned that if Trump can command the National Guard, it could set a troubling precedent for other states.
Finally, he encouraged citizens to exercise their First Amendment rights peacefully, recognizing the anxiety many are feeling. Newsom stressed the importance of faith and action in the face of fear, urging against complacency.
