Trump Orders Deployment of National Guard to Support Federal Immigration Operations in California

President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to assist federal immigration enforcement operations in Los Angeles following a series of violent incidents targeting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and other federal personnel. The move, aimed at safeguarding law enforcement officials and federal property, comes after what the White House described as escalating threats and attacks during deportation operations.

According to a presidential memorandum issued on June 7, the deployment directs the Secretary of Defense to coordinate with state governors and the National Guard Bureau to mobilize National Guard units under federal authority. The mission is to ensure the protection of ICE officers, federal workers, and immigration detention facilities from violent protests and acts of disorder that federal officials claim are impeding the execution of U.S. immigration laws. The memorandum cites concerns that such disruptions amount to rebellion against government authority.

The order authorizes the National Guard units to remain on duty for up to 60 days, with adjustments subject to the discretion of the Secretary of Defense. Additional support from active-duty Armed Forces personnel may also be employed if deemed necessary. The Secretary of Defense is instructed to consult with the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security before withdrawing any forces from assigned locations.

The White House criticized California’s leadership for what it called a failure to maintain public safety and uphold federal law, linking the deployment to the state’s handling of immigration enforcement. The Trump Administration reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on violence against law enforcement, emphasizing that individuals involved in the attacks would face arrest and prosecution.

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the federal government’s decision to assume control over the California National Guard, calling the move inflammatory and likely to worsen tensions in Los Angeles. Newsom emphasized that local authorities already have immediate access to law enforcement resources and that coordination between the city, county, and state remains strong with no unmet security needs. He highlighted the Guard’s ongoing contributions to recovery efforts in the area and warned that deploying troops under a federal mandate for immigration enforcement is misguided and risks damaging public trust.

Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown voiced strong opposition to President Trump’s deployment of federalized National Guard troops to Los Angeles, labeling it an alarming overreach of executive authority. Brown argued that the activation of the Guard under Title 10, particularly over the objections of California’s governor, signals an effort to intimidate dissent rather than uphold law and order. Warning of broader implications, he suggested that similar actions could be extended to places like Baltimore or Prince George’s County. Brown condemned the move as a threat to civil liberties and democratic principles, asserting that it risks setting a dangerous precedent for the use of military force against American citizens.

This article was update 6/8/2025 with a statement from Maryland Attorney General Brown.

Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from a press release issued by The White House, a press release issued by Maryland Attorney General Brown, and a press release issued by California Governor Newsom.

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