President Donald Trump suggested that White House Border Czar Tom Homan should arrest California Governor Gavin Newsom, describing him as “grossly incompetent” while also admitting he personally likes him. Speaking outside the White House, Trump was asked about anti-ICE demonstrations in Los Angeles, where protestors reportedly insulted and harassed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel. Trump criticized the protestors as “professional agitators” and “insurrectionists” who should face jail time, while pointing to Newsom’s handling of projects like a local railroad as evidence of incompetence.
In response to the Los Angeles unrest, Trump deployed around 2,000 National Guard troops and placed 500 Marines on standby, signaling a willingness to invoke the Insurrection Act to restore order. He criticized the protestors’ aggressive behavior, including spitting on police officers, and emphasized the need for repercussions. Trump framed the protests as a challenge to federal authority over immigration enforcement and expressed strong disapproval of the local Democratic leadership for failing to intervene effectively.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris and other Democratic leaders condemned Trump’s deployment of federal forces, calling it a dangerous escalation and part of a “cruel, calculated agenda.” Harris described the protests as “mostly peaceful,” despite reports of injuries, property damage, and attacks on ICE personnel. With tensions high, additional demonstrations were expected to continue across California.