Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared a local emergency and enforced a curfew in downtown following several nights of unrest sparked by immigration raids on Tuesday. The protests, which began peacefully, escalated into violent clashes, vandalism, and looting.
The curfew runs from 8 p.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday. It applies to a one-square-mile area in downtown Los Angeles.
At a press briefing, Bass stated, “I have declared a local emergency and issued a curfew for downtown Los Angeles to stop the vandalism, to stop the looting.” She warned residents to stay out of the area unless they live or work there, adding, “Law enforcement will arrest individuals who break the curfew and you will be prosecuted.”
Nationwide Spread of Protests
Initially triggered by federal immigration enforcement actions, the protests have now spread to other major cities, including Seattle, Austin, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. Demonstrators have blocked roads, held anti-ICE signs, and gathered near federal buildings. While many protests remained non-violent, several turned confrontational, resulting in arrests and the use of tear gas by police.
Additional protests were reported in New York City, San Francisco, and Santa Ana. In these areas, people also rallied against local immigration raids.
Activists Plan Wider Demonstrations
Looking ahead, organizers are calling for large-scale protests this weekend. A national day of action called “No Kings” is scheduled for Saturday to coincide with President Trump’s planned military parade in Washington.
Newsom Slams Trump Over Troop Deployment
California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply criticized President Trump’s decision to deploy nearly 5,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles. He called the move a “military dragnet” and warned it could fuel more unrest.
According to Newsom, federal agents are not just targeting criminals but also arresting undocumented workers such as “dishwashers, gardeners, day labourers and seamstresses.”
National Guard’s Role Expands
On Tuesday, the National Guard took a more active role in Los Angeles. Previously focused on guarding federal buildings, they began accompanying immigration officers during arrests. ICE released images showing uniformed Guard members visibly present during detentions.
In a statement, ICE explained the troops were “providing security at federal facilities and protecting federal officers who are out on daily enforcement operations.” Although Guard members can help with transport and briefly hold suspects who resist, actual arrests must be made by law enforcement officers.
Legal Challenge Against Federal Involvement
That same day, Governor Newsom filed an emergency motion in federal court to stop the Trump administration from using military personnel in immigration operations. He argued that their involvement could deepen public anger and lead to more chaos.
The court has scheduled a hearing for Thursday to consider Newsom’s request. Meanwhile, the federal government has pushed back, calling the motion “an unprecedented and dangerous order” that would interfere with national law enforcement.
Marines Arrive, Prompting New Protests
Hundreds of U.S. Marines arrived in Los Angeles on Tuesday as part of Trump’s orders. Their presence triggered fresh street protests and concern among Democratic officials.
Lawmakers Speak Out
Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla issued a joint statement criticizing the deployment: “Active-duty military personnel should only be mobilised domestically during the most extreme circumstances, and these are not them.”
Escalation in Texas
Elsewhere, tension is also growing. In Dallas and Austin, protests on Monday night turned volatile. Police used tear gas to disperse crowds near government buildings.
Trump Administration Justifies Action
Despite criticism, the White House defended the operation. Officials claim the situation in Los Angeles is spiraling and requires military support to keep order. U.S. Northern Command stated that active-duty Marines are now setting up security posts, protecting federal sites, and preparing rapid-response teams to handle emergencies. These Marines are also backing up National Guard units during major protests.
