2025 Los Angeles Border Demonstrations

Protests began in the city of Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA), in response to demonstrations against immigrant detention centers. Due to the concentration of protests in the city center, security measures were heightened; at the direction of President Donald Trump, National Guard units were deployed to the area.

Background of the Protests

The protest actions, which began on June 7, 2025, were organized in support of undocumented immigrants held in custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Demonstrators gathered outside the Metropolitan Correctional Center in downtown Los Angeles, criticizing detention practices and demanding the protection of immigrants’ rights. The demonstrations spread to various neighborhoods and continued with broad public participation.

Security Measures and Intervention

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) declared unauthorized mass gatherings unlawful across the city. Security forces occasionally used tear gas and plastic bullets during the protests; these interventions sometimes escalated into clashes. Police officials stated that numerous individuals were taken into custody and that several officers were physically assaulted by protesters.

Foreign journalists covering the events in the area were also affected. Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi was injured in the leg by a plastic bullet while reporting on the protests; her condition was later reported to the public as stable.

2025 Los Angeles Border Protests, Moment of Intervention (AA)

Federal Government Intervention

In response to the escalation of the unrest, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the National Guard would be activated to restore public order. It was stated that approximately 300 personnel were initially deployed, with the possibility of increasing that number if necessary. In statements made on Truth Social, President Trump strongly criticized the protesters and ordered the immediate arrest of individuals wearing masks.

State-Federal Tension

California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the federal government for deploying National Guard units in the city without coordinating with state authorities. Newsom argued that the deployment lacked legal basis and announced that the state would initiate legal proceedings against the federal administration. State officials emphasized that the presidential order’s requirement for “coordination with the state governor” had been ignored.

In an interview with MSNBC, Governor Newsom stated, “The Trump administration is operating this process arbitrarily. We will challenge this intervention under the rule of law.” He also strongly rejected threatening statements made by Trump-appointed border security officials regarding potential state intervention.