The Trump administration has been taking a tough stance on illegal immigrants for some time now, continuing the same approach since Trump took office. Recently, this led to severe tensions in Los Angeles, resulting in clashes. Police used tear gas and pepper spray against protestors. In response, protestors threw stones at the police and set fire to vehicles, damaging dozens of cars. As the situation escalated, Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops. California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass criticized the handling of the protests, saying the response was ineffective. They also announced that protestors will no longer be allowed to wear masks during demonstrations.

Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his objections to deploying the National Guard, warning that it might further escalate tensions. FBI Director Kash Patel warned that anyone attacking federal officials or police will definitely face jail time.

In recent days, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials have been conducting raids in Los Angeles, arresting 118 people within a week. On Friday alone, 44 individuals were taken into custody. During these operations, David Huerta, president of the Service Employees International Union in California, was arrested. Protestors gathered near the federal building demanding his release. Authorities clarified that David Huerta’s arrest was part of the government’s efforts to deport illegal immigrants. Former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris commented that the immigration arrests and deployment of guards are causing fear and division, describing the measures as cruel. She expressed her support for those standing up to protect fundamental rights and freedoms.