Los Angeles police declared downtown an unlawful assembly zone on Sunday night after violence escalated during ongoing immigration protests. Demonstrators clashed with law enforcement for a third straight day, challenging President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration policies.
Protests Escalate Downtown
Thousands gathered to protest Trump’s latest immigration crackdown, which includes daily arrest targets for ICE and stricter border control. Initially peaceful rallies turned chaotic as protesters threw projectiles at police and set fire to self-driving cars from Waymo. Police responded by declaring several rallies unlawful and later extended that designation citywide. Mounted officers moved in to disperse the crowds.
Federal Response Fuels Backlash
National Guard troops were deployed over the weekend to protect federal buildings. The move sparked outrage among California officials, who labeled it a federal overreach. Governor Gavin Newsom called the deployment unlawful and pledged to challenge it in court. He accused Trump of inflaming tensions to provoke a national crisis.
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Police Push Back, Arrests Mount
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell acknowledged citizens’ right to protest but condemned the violence. He confirmed 10 arrests on Sunday and 29 the previous night, with more expected. Protesters also briefly blocked the 101 Freeway, one of the city’s busiest roads.
Trump Stokes the Fire
On social media, President Trump labeled protesters “violent, insurrectionist mobs” and urged immediate police action. Although he stopped short of invoking the Insurrection Act, Trump ordered his cabinet to take “all necessary action” to restore order.
Mixed Messaging from Officials
While Trump urged force, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem claimed the National Guard aimed to protect peaceful demonstrators and law enforcement. However, local leaders like Mayor Karen Bass and advocacy groups accused the administration of escalating tensions for political gain.
The U.S. Northern Command reported deploying 300 National Guard troops across three downtown sites. Meanwhile, active-duty Marines at Camp Pendleton remain on high alert, prepared for potential mobilization if the unrest continues.
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