Vance Warns Governor Over Violence in Cities

Vice President JD Vance issued a stern warning to California’s Democratic governor, stating that if violent groups are allowed to “burn America’s great cities to the ground,” the Trump administration would respond by sending federal law enforcement to ensure public safety.

Speaking from Los Angeles, Vance noted that, on a brighter note, the situation in the city had improved—calling the recent riots “a lot better.” He mentioned that the troops and Marines deployed to manage the unrest are considered an essential part of the response, based on feedback from those involved.

Vance didn’t hold back in criticizing Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. He accused them of “actively encouraging illegal immigration” and claimed their policies have weakened law enforcement and public services in the area.

When asked about a recent Ninth Circuit Court ruling that permitted President Trump to federate the California National Guard, Vance remarked that this essentially confirms the legitimacy of federalizing the National Guard as a proper use of law enforcement.

“The President has made straightforward proposals to every city and community,” Vance elaborated. “If you uphold your laws and support federal law enforcement, there’s usually no need to send the National Guard. But if a violent mob threatens to destroy our great cities, then yes, we will deploy federal law enforcement to protect them.”

Previously, the Ninth Circuit Court issued a 38-page opinion affirming the Trump administration’s ability to federate the California State Guard. The ruling suggested that Trump’s approach had merit and extended a temporary court order against his administration.

In the court’s conclusion, the judges—two appointed by Trump and one by Biden—determined that the president likely would prevail in the case. They also pointed out that Governor Newsom’s complaint about not being consulted was unfounded, noting Trump had fulfilled his duty by informing the governor. Even if objections were valid, they did not undermine his authority.

This month, Trump had been active in Los Angeles, deploying 2,000 members of the California National Guard to curtail the violence. In response, Democrats, including former Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Newsom, criticized the move as a “dangerous escalation” that was likely to create confusion.

Moreover, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell revealed that an additional 2,000 California National Guardsmen had been federated, alongside hundreds of US Marines sent to assist the California State Guard.