As of Monday, approximately 700 U.S. Marines are being temporarily deployed to Los Angeles to bolster security amid intensifying protests against President Donald Trump’s immigration policies. This marks one of the most substantial military responses to domestic unrest in recent years, as the protests—now entering their fourth day—have grown in size and intensity, particularly in response to large-scale immigration raids and expedited deportation measures.
The deployment of Marines is meant to reinforce the National Guard presence in the city, which is projected to exceed 4,000 troops by mid-week following federal orders for an additional 2,000 Guard members. Currently, around 1,000 Guard troops are already operating in the area under federal authority. Despite the military buildup, the Pentagon has not yet invoked the Insurrection Act, which would allow active-duty troops to engage directly in law enforcement. Officials stated that invoking the Act is not being considered at this time, though the “fluid” situation could evolve.
President Trump defended the move, claiming it prevented the city from being “completely obliterated,” while California state officials pushed back hard. California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a lawsuit against the Trump administration, calling the federal mobilization an “unlawful abuse of power” and a violation of the state’s rights. “We don’t take lightly to the president abusing his authority and unlawfully mobilizing California National Guard troops,” Bonta said.
The protests have centered on immigration enforcement actions, with thousands of demonstrators denouncing what they see as inhumane policies and a militarized crackdown. The visible military presence, especially in a major urban area like Los Angeles, has raised alarm among civil liberties groups and local residents who fear escalating confrontation.
As the situation develops, all eyes are on whether the federal government will escalate further by invoking broader powers or whether a political and legal standoff between Washington and Sacramento will intensify.
