Violent protests against the United States government’s immigration policy have entered their fifth day in Los Angeles, prompting a citywide curfew after 6:00 PM. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has declared a state of emergency.
According to The New York Times, demonstrations opposing the mass deportation of undocumented immigrants have now spread to 25 cities across 12 states. Protests have also erupted in cities like San Francisco, Dallas, Austin, Texas, and New York.
In response, President Donald Trump has deployed 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Navy commandos to Los Angeles, warning that the situation is rapidly deteriorating. He stated that if necessary, the military would act with full force. Over Monday and Tuesday, the Los Angeles Police Department arrested more than 1,100 protesters.
“If necessary, I will invoke martial law,” Trump said, warning that continued unrest could lead to the entire city of Los Angeles being brought under military rule — a move that legally permits the use of military force to restore order.
The President also issued a stark warning ahead of the upcoming June 14 military parade in Washington D.C., which coincides with the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and his 79th birthday. He stated that protesters attempting to disrupt the event would face military retaliation.
So far, two individuals have been killed during the protests, which are largely a reaction to recent federal raids targeting undocumented immigrants. Visuals from the protests show protesters setting vehicles on fire, burning American flags, waving Mexican flags, and clashing with police forces.
Trump Faces Opposition from Local Leaders
President Trump’s deployment of the National Guard and naval forces has drawn strong opposition from California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, both of whom claim they were not consulted. This marks the first time National Guard forces were deployed without a state governor’s authorization.
Mayor Bass criticized the move, saying:
“We are in the dark. We don’t know what’s happening next. We don’t need the military, especially when we haven’t even requested them. The President has overstepped by overriding the governor — this is unacceptable.”
Trump went as far as suggesting Governor Newsom should be detained, accusing him of acting maliciously and unfit for re-election.
Mass Immigration Raids and ICE Crackdown
Under Trump’s immigration deportation policy, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has set a daily target of detaining and deporting 3,000 undocumented immigrants. Officials report an average of 1,600 arrests per day, with many employers also accused of providing false documentation.
During coordinated military-style operations, federal agents from ICE, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), FBI, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) used flashbang grenades, tear gas, pepper spray, and heavy weapons. Raids were carried out at locations including two Home Depot stores in the Westlake District, Ambience Apparel in the Fashion District, a warehouse in South Los Angeles, and a local donut shop.
Republican Party Blames Democrats and China
The Republican Party has blamed Democratic leaders and China for fueling the protests. Republican Representative Bill Esaley claimed that organizations linked to the Democratic Party and the Chinese Communist Party have funded these demonstrations. He specifically pointed to the organization CHIRLA, which reportedly received $2.85 billion under the Biden administration in 2023 before funds were suspended by Homeland Security in March 2025.
Republicans also raised concerns about the organization PSS, claiming it is financially supported by Chinese billionaire Neville Singham, known for backing anti-American movements.
Protesters Include Immigrant Rights Groups
The protests are supported by various grassroots and immigrant rights organizations, including the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights and the National Day Laborer Organizing Network. Demonstrators include local residents, immigrant community supporters, and legal aid workers.
Trump Vows to Close U.S.–Mexico Border
President Trump has vowed to enforce large-scale deportations and to shut down the U.S.–Mexico border. White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller described the demonstrations as a rebellion against national sovereignty and immigration law.
Protester Ron Goshes told Reuters: “They can’t take our people. We will stand united and resist.”