What began as protests in Los Angeles against aggressive immigration raids has now triggered a wave of demonstrations across the United States. Tensions continue to rise as the federal government escalates its response.
Thousands of National Guard Troops Deployed
According to a CNN report, the Trump administration has authorized the deployment of thousands of additional National Guard troops to suppress ongoing protests. In response, the California state government has filed a lawsuit challenging the legality of the deployment, arguing that the use of National Guard troops to control civilian protests is unconstitutional. The state is seeking a court order to block any such future deployments.
Protests Spread Across States
The demonstrations began in Los Angeles following immigration raids and the arrest of numerous immigrants. The unrest soon spread to other parts of California, including Santa Ana and San Francisco, where nearly 150 demonstrators were detained on Sunday.
In New York City, protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) led to several arrests on Monday, as activists blocked traffic near federal buildings. Similar scenes unfolded in Atlanta, where demonstrators gathered outside the local ICE office, demanding the release of detainees.
Protest actions were also reported in Louisville, Kentucky, and Dallas, Texas.
Labor Leader’s Arrest Sparks Solidarity Rallies
Labor unions across the country have condemned the arrest of David Hovita, a prominent union leader taken into custody during the Los Angeles protests. Although Hovita has since been released on bail, rallies demanding justice and his full exoneration were held in cities including Boston, Pittsburgh, Charlotte, Seattle, Washington, D.C., and across Connecticut and New York.
Escalation in Downtown Los Angeles
Clashes intensified in central Los Angeles as law enforcement began using rubber bullets to disperse protesters. In response, demonstrators hurled objects at officers, prompting authorities to call for an evacuation of the area.
The U.S. Northern Command confirmed the deployment of approximately 700 Marines to protect federal buildings and personnel in Los Angeles. The Pentagon also revealed that President Trump ordered an additional 2,000 National Guard troops to be sent to the region, following an earlier directive issued over the weekend.
Officials Defend Military Response, Claim ‘Professional Protest Operation’
Tom Homan, President Trump’s border security advisor, defended the decision to deploy Marines, saying it was necessary to regain control. However, he declined to explain the criteria being used for military involvement.
On Fox News, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem alleged—without presenting evidence—that the protests in Los Angeles were being professionally organized and that participants were being paid.
“These are coordinated actions,” said Noem. “You can see it in how protesters communicate and operate within the crowd. This isn’t spontaneous—it’s orchestrated, and we will hold them accountable.”
When questioned by host Sean Hannity about the alleged appearance of bricks at protest sites, Noem reiterated claims of organized efforts but did not provide concrete proof. CNN has reached out to the Department of Homeland Security for further clarification on her statements.
Noem also stated that law enforcement had taken action against “400 to 500 targets” in Los Angeles on Monday, claiming they were affiliated with well-known gangs. She criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for his lack of response.
Police Continue Efforts to Clear Protest Areas
Local police in Los Angeles began moving demonstrators away from the federal building without assistance from the National Guard. Though protesters initially complied peacefully, tensions escalated as officers confined them to smaller areas.
Frequent tear gas canisters were reported, and some demonstrators were struck by projectiles fired by officers, though the type of munitions used remains unclear.
