The state of California is set to file a lawsuit against the Trump administration, contesting the decision to federalize the National Guard and deploy its members onto city streets in response to escalating protests regarding Trump’s immigration policies, as stated by California Attorney General Rob Bonta on Monday.
According to California’s adjutant general, Trump has ordered the deployment of 2,000 troops in Los Angeles for a duration expected to last 60 days. Bonta announced that the lawsuit against the administration would be submitted Monday afternoon during a press conference, describing Trump’s action as “unnecessary, counterproductive, and most importantly unlawful.” He further asserted that Trump’s directive misused the federal government’s power and “trampled over” the sovereignty of Governor Gavin Newsom.
Trump has claimed that the National Guard’s presence will help restore order amidst escalating violent confrontations between police and protesters who are frustrated with his aggressive stance on undocumented immigrants residing illegally in the U.S. In a social media update, the president vowed to “liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion and put an end to these Migrant riots. Order will be restored, the Illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free.”
In a social media statement, Newsom attributed the rise in unrest to Trump following three days of protests, declaring, “we’re suing him.” He stated, “Donald Trump is instilling fear and terror by neglecting to comply with the U.S. Constitution and overstepping his authority. This is a manufactured crisis designed to enable him to take control of a state militia, undermining the very foundation of our republic.”
On Monday, police were advising businesses and residents to report any instances of “vandalism, damage, or looting” for documentation purposes after some protests on Sunday escalated into violent confrontations between officers and demonstrators. Reports indicated that some vehicles were set on fire, protesters obstructed the 101 Freeway, and a group gathered on an overpass, throwing objects at police, as captured in video footage.
(Newsroom staff only edited this story for style from a syndicated feed)
