In response to growing unrest over federal immigration raids, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has declared a local emergency and imposed an overnight curfew in the downtown area.
The announcement comes amid nationwide protests against intensified immigration enforcement and the deployment of military forces ordered by President Donald Trump.
Protesters flooded the streets of Los Angeles, holding anti-ICE placards, chanting slogans, and blocking traffic near federal buildings. Similar demonstrations have erupted in cities including Seattle, Chicago, Austin, Washington D.C., San Francisco, Santa Ana, and New York City.
Mayor Bass stated the curfew aims to curb vandalism and looting and may extend over the next several days. Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom has filed an emergency federal court motion challenging the President’s deployment of nearly 5,000 National Guard troops and 700 US Marines in LA, warning the move could escalate civil unrest.
Key Developments:
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National Guard Troops Join ICE Arrests: Their role has expanded from guarding federal properties to actively assisting in arrests and transport operations.
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Visible Military Presence: Photos released by ICE show Guard troops shielding immigration officers during enforcement actions.
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Federal Justification: ICE claims the Guard is protecting federal personnel and facilities, not conducting arrests independently.
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Governor’s Legal Challenge: Newsom’s motion argues the deployment is excessive and unconstitutional, sparking a legal battle with a hearing scheduled for Thursday.
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Rising Tensions: The arrival of Marines has fueled more protests, with Democratic leaders cautioning against authoritarian overreach.
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Protests Turn Tense: In Texas, clashes in Dallas and Austin saw police using tear gas to disperse demonstrators.
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Democratic Criticism: Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla condemned the use of active-duty military, calling it disproportionate.
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Nationwide Protest Plans: Activists are organizing “No Kings” marches nationwide on Saturday, coinciding with Trump’s scheduled military parade in Washington.
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Marines on Standby: According to US Northern Command, Marines are establishing quick-reaction teams and securing federal zones.
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Governor’s Warning: Newsom claims Trump’s immigration raids are targeting everyday workers — not just criminals — calling it a “military dragnet.”
The situation continues to evolve rapidly, with more protests expected and legal battles over federal authority likely to intensify in the days ahead.
