Once Again, the Trump Administration Deploys National Guard to Curb Protests
THE REALITY: Following mass protests in California in response to the Trump administration’s anti-immigrant agenda and raids from federal ICE agents, President Trump has deployed 2,000 additional National Guard troops. This is occurring after an initial deployment of 2,000 National Guard members and the activation of Marines to patrol the streets of Los Angeles.
California Governor Gavin Newsom sued the Trump administration to regain control of California’s National Guard and obtained a temporary restraining order, which was later stayed by an appeals court. On June 19, the court determined that Trump acted within his authority when activating California’s National Guard troops — without the governor’s consent — to support federal agents and protect federal buildings. The troops are not authorized to engage in local law enforcement activities.
THE FALSE NARRATIVE: Repeatedly, President Trump has indicated that military resources must be sent to California to quell violence and disorder and that there is a “rebellion” in the state. However, the truth is that protests have been overwhelmingly peaceful, although there have been isolated instances of violence. A constitutionally protected activity — peaceful protest — cannot be the basis for declaring a rebellion. And these troops are being sent against the will of both Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Newsom.
WHY IT’S DANGEROUS: Protests against injustice have compelled this country’s progress to be more just and inclusive. Already, people who participate in racial justice protests have been found to experience more police violence than those in other protests. The reality is simple: Further increasing the presence of armed troops is a dangerous escalation of violence and an abuse of power that risks even more harm. President Trump is deploying National Guard troops against communities exercising a fundamental right rather than in service of them.
LDF AT WORK: LDF has long fought to protect the rights of protesters. From representing the Freedom Riders to advocating for the rights of demonstrators in the 2020 protests, LDF has always worked to protect peaceful protesters and advance racial justice.