U.S. Vice President JD Vance visited Los Angeles on Friday to meet with National Guard troops and Marines deployed by President Donald Trump to quell ongoing protests over federal immigration raids. Vance accused Democratic leaders, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, of encouraging illegal immigration and undermining law enforcement efforts.
Over 4,000 National Guard members and 700 Marines were sent to Los Angeles earlier this month following Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) workplace raids. The deployment, made against Newsom's wishes, has fueled national controversy over the use of military force on American soil. A federal appeals court upheld Trump’s authority over California’s National Guard, reinforcing the legality of the move.
Vance defended the troop presence, calling it “a legitimate and necessary measure” and suggesting they may remain for the foreseeable future due to ongoing security concerns. He criticized Newsom and Bass for allegedly failing to enforce immigration laws and support federal officers, stating that “Border Patrol is law enforcement working to uphold the will of the American people.”
Governor Newsom, seen as a potential 2028 presidential candidate, rejected Vance’s claims as “categorically false.” His spokesperson pointed to social media posts condemning violence and blaming Trump’s actions for escalating tensions. Newsom has called the troop deployment unconstitutional and counterproductive.
Mayor Bass also condemned Vance’s remarks, labeling them “lies and nonsense,” and described the military presence as a “provocation” that has instilled fear in Los Angeles communities.
As immigration policy continues to stir deep political divisions, the clash between federal and state leaders highlights growing tensions over enforcement, civil rights, and the role of the military in domestic affairs.
