By DL White
Los Angeles, California – The second-largest city in the United States is currently under siege—caught in a storm of protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the sudden deployment of National Guard and Marine units ordered by the Trump Administration.
Tensions have been steadily rising for days in response to aggressive tactics by ICE, following directives from the Trump administration to detain and deport undocumented immigrants—regardless of age or gender—often without due process.
Adding fuel to the fire, President Trump, in a repeat of early actions from his second term, invoked “emergency terminology” to override California state leadership. Using what’s referred to as Rule 10—specifically under U.S. Code § 12406—Trump authorized the federalization of the National Guard, claiming falsely that an “insurrection” is underway.
Rule 10 allows a president to deploy the National Guard under narrow conditions: in cases of rebellion, invasion, or if law enforcement is unable to maintain order—none of which currently apply to the situation in Los Angeles.
Typically, such a decision would originate from the state government, specifically the Governor’s office. This raises the pressing question: What is Trump’s endgame? Why escalate an already tense situation?
It’s worth noting that California faces a crucial gubernatorial election next year. If Trump successfully undermines the current Democratic leadership—Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass—it could crack the door open for a GOP challenger to position themselves as the so-called protector against “chaos.”
California, a staunchly blue state, has consistently opposed Trump’s policies. Both Newsom and Bass have openly criticized the administration’s use of ICE and threats to withhold federal emergency relief funds for natural disasters.
Earlier this week, as protests intensified, the increased militarization only added to the volatility.
In response to the military presence, Governor Newsom and Mayor Bass made it clear that neither the National Guard nor Marines were requested or needed. Both leaders emphasized that this show of force only escalates tensions.
Governor Newsom has vowed legal action, stating in an MSNBC interview that California will sue the Trump administration for the “unconstitutional deployment” of federal troops. Meanwhile, Mayor Bass, speaking at a press conference, expressed her frustration.
“We understand what is happening in our city and felt we could have managed the matter. What is needed from the administration is for ICE to stand down. Stop these inhumane and unlawful tactics to detain individuals,” said Mayor Bass.
She referenced a particularly disturbing incident:
“My office has been made aware that ICE took a woman into custody during her annual medical check-up. She was simply responding to her appointment notification. Her family was waiting outside the room. ICE came in and took her—no questions asked.”
A memo from the White House labeled the protests a “rebellion” and claimed they inhibit law enforcement. California officials rejected that language, noting that no federal buildings had been attacked and there has been no attempt to overthrow local government.
“The real rebellion actually took place on January 6, 2021,” said Michael Brown, a former LA resident now living in Arizona.
“I still have family in LA. I believe the local government could have handled this. The problem is ICE. Mayor Bass is doing a good job, and Governor Newsom has served admirably. This federal interference is unnecessary.”
The LAPD has confirmed authorization to use less-lethal munitions, warning they “may cause pain and discomfort.” Protesters have clashed with officers across downtown as tear gas and flash bangs echoed through side streets. Tourists sheltered in hotels and restaurants as the chaos unfolded.
Mayor Bass, condemning violence caused by “fringe groups,” confirmed that over 100 arrests were made on Monday night, June 9.
“What we saw downtown was horrible,” she told local media. “But the majority of today’s protest was peaceful.”
Notable:
How long will the National Guard and Marines remain in LA—and which city might be next? Trump’s recent actions draw alarming parallels to the rise of Adolf Hitler. Hitler’s early attempt to seize power began with a coup and, later, through political manipulation after his release from prison.
Just as Trump promotes his controversial Project 2025, Hitler penned Mein Kampf—a manifesto outlining his extremist vision, including the concept of absolute rule and the elimination of dissent. Both demonstrate dangerous ideologies rooted in control and supremacy.
Personal Note:
Several friends in the LA area have checked in to say they are safe. Most unrest is confined to a few square miles in commercial districts downtown. Los Angeles spans hundreds of square miles, with the county covering thousands.
“This didn’t have to happen,” one friend said. “And the truth is, many of the people protesting voted for Trump. They didn’t think the other candidate could do the job. How wrong they were. He has created a hostile environment. Voting has consequences.”
Next: The Rise to Power: Unfortunate Similarities Between Trump and Hitler
Danny L. White currently lives in Phoenix, AZ. He is the author and creative lead for the Sensational letter “S”, a children’s book focused on early reading comprehension and word development. He is also a Adjunct faculty member at Maricopa College, and staff reporter for the Arizona Informant. He is an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc, in Phoenix.