Press Release: Military Presence Grows Amid Planned Protests in Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES (AP) — As protests over federal immigration raids intensify nationwide, approximately 200 Marines were deployed in Los Angeles on Friday to secure a federal building. This move comes ahead of the “No Kings” demonstrations scheduled across the country, which criticize President Trump’s policies.
The Marines are replacing National Guard troops, previously deployed to assist in immigration enforcement, to allow them to focus on public safety during the raids. While tensions have led to clashes and numerous arrests across the nation, the Marines’ role remains non-enforcement. Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman emphasized the active-duty troops would not be involved in detentions, although they did briefly apprehend an individual who trespassed on federal property.
This military presence follows a legal battle where a federal judge ordered troops back under state control, only for the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to temporarily block that ruling. California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the deployments as a violation of state sovereignty, reflecting escalating tensions between state and federal authorities.
Protests have drawn diverse crowds, albeit mostly peaceful, despite approximately 500 arrests for various offenses. An enforced curfew in parts of downtown Los Angeles marks the city’s struggle to balance public safety and civil unrest. While a military parade is set to occur in Washington, D.C., “No Kings” protests in nearly 2,000 locations signify widespread dissatisfaction with Trump’s policies.
This unfolding situation highlights the complex interplay of local community sentiments, federal actions, and military involvement in civilian affairs.
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