Additional Coverage:
- Newsom calls out Hegseth’s ‘deranged’ threat to deploy active-duty Marines in LA riots (themirror.com)
Tensions Flare as California Governor Condemns Potential Marine Deployment to Los Angeles
California Governor Gavin Newsom has sharply criticized a proposal by Pete Hegseth, former Army National Guard officer and Fox News commentator, to deploy active-duty Marines to Los Angeles amid ongoing protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Newsom called Hegseth “deranged” for suggesting the deployment.
The controversy began after Hegseth characterized the protests as “violent mob assaults” on federal law enforcement, claiming they represent a national security risk. Hegseth stated that if the National Guard deployment proved insufficient, active-duty Marines from Camp Pendleton would be mobilized.
Governor Newsom responded to news of potential federal intervention, stating that the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops was unnecessary and intended to create a “spectacle.” He urged Californians to avoid violence and express their views peacefully.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the federal response, arguing that Governor Newsom had failed to address the violence and should thank President Trump for restoring order. Leavitt accused Democratic leaders of neglecting their duty to protect citizens and asserted that the deployment was necessary to enforce federal laws.
The protests stem from clashes between demonstrators and federal agents at a detention center, where tear gas and flash-bangs were deployed. Former President Trump also weighed in on the situation, criticizing Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and suggesting federal intervention was necessary to quell the unrest.
Reports from the scene describe border patrol agents in riot gear using tear gas on protesters. ICE Deputy Director Tom Homan stated the actions were intended to make Los Angeles safer.
Protesters voiced their opposition to ICE’s presence, chanting and displaying signs.