LA Troop Deployment: Hegseth Backs Trump, Criticizes Newsom
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth firmly defends the deployment of National guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles, citing the need for law and order amidst escalating riots. Hegseth criticized California’s Governor and Los Angeles’s Mayor, accusing them of failing to protect citizens and ICE agents from violent unrest. He argued that President Trump is acting within his legal authority, a point challenged by Rep.aguilar, who questioned the deployment’s legality. News Directory 3 delivers a comprehensive breakdown of the unfolding situation. Discover what’s next as tensions rise.
National Guard and Marines Deployed to Los Angeles Amid Riots
Updated June 10, 2025
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday staunchly defended the deployment of National Guard troops and U.S. Marines to Los angeles, asserting that President Trump is stepping in where California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have failed. Hegseth claims they did not adequately protect ICE agents and citizens from violent rioters.
during a House appropriations Subcommittee hearing,Hegseth sparred with Rep. Pete Aguilar, D-Calif.,arguing that the president has the legal authority to deploy troops because rioters attacked ICE agents and torched property in the sanctuary city,while waving Mexican flags and flags of other nations. The riots reportedly began during ICE deportation raids.
Hegseth stated that every American deserves to live in a safe community and that ICE agents must be able to perform their duties without being attacked. He added that the Trump administration believes in law and order, justifying the intervention.
department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testifies before the House Committee on Appropriations subcommittee oversight hearing on the Department of Defense, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, June 10, 2025. (Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
Aguilar questioned the legal basis for deploying National Guard troops under 10 U.S. Code 12406, noting the administration did not consult with the state before deploying 2,000 National Guardsmen and approximately 700 U.S. Marines.aguilar cited instances such as invasion by a foreign nation, rebellion, or the president’s inability to enforce U.S. laws with regular forces as justifications for such deployments.
Hegseth countered, stating that the situation in Los Angeles appeared to meet all three criteria. He emphasized the presence of “millions of illegals” waving foreign flags and assaulting law enforcement officers, asserting that President Trump has the necessary authority and is willing to act on behalf of Los Angeles citizens, ICE agents, and the contry.
