Friday, July 18, 2025

Pentagon Ends National Guard Deployment in Los Angeles

STAFF REPORT

The Pentagon has ended the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops in Los Angeles, cutting nearly in half the military presence sent to the city in response to protests over federal immigration enforcement actions.

Approximately 4,000 Guard members and 700 Marines have been stationed in the region since early to mid-June.

The reason for the abrupt end to the 60-day deployment was not initially disclosed by the Pentagon, though a spokesperson cited a decline in lawlessness as contributing to the decision; there was also no indication of how long the remaining personnel would stay.

Last week, a judge barred ICE officers from racially profiling

people during immigration actions and mandated access to attorneys for immigrants detained by the agency.

Three people from Pasadena detained at a Pasadena bus stop are plaintiffs in the case.

The Trump administration is appealing that ruling.

Late last month, military commanders requested the return of 200 troops to assist with wildfire duties as California entered peak fire season, citing concerns over understaffing. The request followed warnings from state officials about the need for additional firefighting support.

The move comes a week after a high-profile operation at MacArthur Park involving federal authorities and National Guard troops. The operation concluded without explanation from federal agencies, and local officials speculated it may have been intended to intimidate the public.

The initial deployment drew thousands of protesters into the streets on June 8, where major freeways were blocked and confrontations with law enforcement escalated.

Several Waymo robotaxis were set ablaze.

The following day, officers used flash bangs and projectiles to disperse crowds in Little Tokyo, causing panic among bystanders and local businesses.

A curfew was implemented by the city to curb further unrest.

Although protests continued in smaller forms, large-scale demonstrations diminished.

As of Tuesday, the military had largely withdrawn from key federal sites downtown, which had served as focal points for earlier protests.

Marines had assumed protection duties at some buildings previously guarded by the Guard.

President Donald Trump had ordered the original deployment despite objections from California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who filed a lawsuit challenging the legality of the move.

Newsom argued the deployment violated both the law and the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits military involvement in civilian law enforcement.

An initial ruling sided with Newsom, but an appeals court later stayed that decision, keeping control of the Guard under federal command.

The deployment had been authorized for 60 days, with the defense secretary granted discretion to modify the timeline as needed.

State officials have criticized the continued presence of troops, characterizing the deployment as politically motivated.

While some Guard members remain in Los Angeles, their long-term role remains uncertain as legal challenges continue.

A federal court is scheduled to hear arguments next month regarding the potential violation of the Posse Comitatus Act.