Trump Criticizes California Leaders Amid LA Riots

President Donald Trump has ramped up his criticism of California officials, targeting Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass as “incompetent.” This follows violent protests that erupted in Los Angeles in response to federal immigration policies.

Trump expressed frustration over how local leaders manage crises, saying, “Look at how they handled the fires, and now we’re facing a slow permit disaster. We have an incompetent governor (Newscum) and mayor (Bass).” He made these remarks on social media.

During the protests, masked individuals reportedly threw objects, set fires, and targeted law enforcement in areas like Paramount. Some vandalism included anti-ICE slogans marked on public property.

Trump questioned, “What do these people have to hide?” referring to the protesters wearing masks. He has announced plans to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops to the region despite objections from Newsom. This comes after federal agents conducted immigration enforcement operations, arresting over 100 undocumented individuals, including members of gangs and drug traffickers, leading to increased tension.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem warned that violence against federal officials would not be tolerated, stating, “You will not stop us. The law will continue to be enforced.” She cautioned that anyone assaulting a law enforcement officer would face full legal consequences.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that federal reinforcements could be in place within the next 24 hours. The Department of Defense has mobilized additional National Guard units, with active-duty Marines near Camp Pendleton on alert for possible escalations.

In response to the unrest, Newsom criticized the federal government’s role in the crisis, claiming, “The federal government is sowing chaos to justify their escalation.” He emphasized that state authorities are deploying additional resources to maintain peace on the highways without enforcing federal immigration laws.