Protests Erupt in Los Angeles Over Trump’s Immigration Policies

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Tensions escalated in Los Angeles on Sunday as thousands protested President Donald Trump’s deployment of the National Guard amid ongoing immigration raids. Demonstrators blocked major highways, clashed with law enforcement, and set vehicles ablaze, leading to multiple arrests.

The unrest began after federal agents carried out several immigration raids in predominantly Latino neighborhoods, drawing large crowds to the streets. As events unfolded, local police declared unlawful assemblies, prompting further confrontations.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell described the remote situation as “overwhelming,” noting that many protesters were prepared to incite violence. Reports indicate that protesters hurled rocks and other projectiles at law enforcement officers trying to maintain order.

During the demonstration, roughly 300 National Guard troops were deployed, primarily to protect federal buildings. Governor Gavin Newsom decried this move as a “serious breach of state sovereignty,” urging for a peaceful resolution. He stated in a press conference, “What we’re seeing is chaos that is provoked by the administration. This isn’t about public safety.”

In contrast, Trump justified the military presence, saying, “We’re going to have troops everywhere. We’re not going to let this happen to our country.” He criticized local leaders for their response to the riots.

The protests have been described as some of the most intense in the city since previous large-scale demonstrations. Critics, including Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, claim Trump is stoking the flames of violence, having previously accused the federal government of allowing the protests to spiral out of control.

Despite some protesters remaining peaceful, the conflict remained severe, with demonstrators reportedly armed with makeshift weapons. By nightfall, at least 60 arrests had been made, and officials warned that violence could escalate as darkness fell.

The deployment of National Guard members was met with widespread criticism, with some local leaders questioning its necessity. As tensions continue, both supporters and opponents of Trump’s immigration policies brace for another day of protests against targeted raids in the Los Angeles area.