Trump sends more National Guard troops to California; Newsom calls it ‘a step toward authoritarianism’

U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of an additional 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles in response to ongoing protests sparked by mass detentions of undocumented migrants.

California Governor Gavin Newsom denounced the move as “an abuse of power” and “a step toward authoritarianism.”

“I’ve just been informed that Trump is sending another 2,000 guardsmen to LA,” Newsom posted on X, saying only 300 of those already deployed were actively engaged, while the rest “remain idle in federal buildings.”

Trump later said he would have arrested Newsom if he were in charge of federal law enforcement. The White House accused the governor of failing to maintain order, claiming the deployment prevented “total disaster.”

According to the Pentagon, the Guard will remain in the city for at least 60 days to protect immigration facilities. Police reported more than 60 arrests, including for attacks on federal buildings.

Media also reported injuries to journalists — an Australian reporter and a British photographer — who were hit by rubber bullets during the protests.

N.Tebrizli