The White House, represented by press secretary Karoline Leavitt, affirmed that President Donald Trump supports peaceful protests, especially concerning the planned military parade in downtown Washington, D.C. on Saturday.
When questioned about Trump’s previous remarks suggesting heavy force against protesters, Leavitt maintained that the president is committed to ensuring that protests remain non-violent.
“The president absolutely supports peaceful protests,” Leavitt stated, dismissing the inquiry as a “stupid question.”
In a separate but related development, the Trump administration filed a formal response to California’s lawsuit aimed at preventing military involvement in immigration enforcement, labeling it a “crass political stunt.”
The Justice Department emphasized that the president holds the constitutional right to deploy the National Guard and Marines to address violence targeting federal law enforcement.
It criticized California’s Governor Gavin Newsom for filing a restraining order instead of collaborating to maintain order in Los Angeles.
The state’s response does clarify that it does not oppose the deployment of federal troops for protecting federal officials and properties; however, it contends that their involvement in immigration enforcement activities is unlawful.
Amid these tensions, sources have indicated that the Marines might provide security for ICE agents conducting immigration arrests, while the DOJ maintains that the federal forces are not acting in a law enforcement capacity, but rather ensuring the safety of federal facilities and personnel.
A hearing for California’s request is scheduled for tomorrow, with legal experts closely following the developments.
In a demonstration of bipartisan support, attorneys general from 20 states and Guam have rallied behind President Trump, asserting that his military mobilization was appropriate and constitutional.
They emphasized the need for federal involvement in safeguarding law enforcement officers amid escalating tensions in Los Angeles due to ongoing protests against ICE raids.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, however, condemned the federal raids and the deployment of military personnel, arguing that these actions have created a climate of fear among residents.
Mayor Bass remarked, “A week ago, everything was peaceful in Los Angeles… It is important to recognize that these raids have provoked significant difficulties in our city.”
She criticized the Trump administration for instilling panic and escalated tensions and labeled the decision to bring in military troops as “chaotic” and “unnecessary.”
Other local leaders voiced similar concerns, with Ventura Mayor Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios stating that no one should live in fear while pursuing a better life or supporting their families.
Downey Council Member Mario Trujillo recounted an incident in which an elderly individual was detained while dropping off his granddaughter at school, citing widespread fear and chaos caused by the raids.
Senator Chris Coons, a Democrat from Delaware, raised concerns regarding the appropriateness of deploying Marines and National Guard personnel in the city, asserting that they lack the necessary training for such operations.
He highlighted the troubling implications of using military personnel in domestic situations, drawing comparisons to authoritarian regimes that suppress public dissent.
Coons also criticized the planned military parade in Washington D.C., likening it to similar spectacles in cities such as Moscow and Beijing.
However, Senator Lindsey Graham expressed support for the parade, noting that the soldiers’ contributions should be celebrated while distinguishing them from oppressive uniformed forces.
As protests continued, more than 200 individuals were arrested for failing to comply with a curfew, along with others charged with various violations, including assaulting police officers.
The Los Angeles Police Department reported that two officers had sustained injuries during these confrontations, though specifics regarding the incidents remain unclear.
Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) drew attention to a perceived double standard in how law enforcement responds to pro-Trump versus anti-Trump protests, referencing the lack of National Guard deployment during the January 6 Capitol riot.
Despite Trump’s claims of having requested National Guard help that day, investigations revealed no corroborative evidence of such an offer.
Roger Garcia, a commissioner from Douglas County, Nebraska, lamented the chaos faced by local Latino businesses amid ongoing ICE operations, describing how many had to close due to fear.
Amid the protests, an individual was charged with attempted murder after assaulting law enforcement with a Molotov cocktail, highlighting the escalating risks during these events.
Officials from the Department of Homeland Security reported apprehensions of others tied to violent protests, stressing their commitment to prosecuting those who violate the law.
Chicago’s police department stated their commitment to upholding First Amendment rights at planned ICE protests, emphasizing both support for peaceful assembly and accountability for criminal behavior.
Homeland Security warned against what they described as a “rioting mob,” showcasing drone footage of chaotic scenes in Los Angeles to illustrate their perspective.
However, Mayor Bass countered this narrative, insisting that the depiction of lawlessness was exaggerated.
Governor Newsom echoed Bass’s sentiments, asserting that the majority of protests had remained peaceful and criticized President Trump’s actions as an abuse of power.
In response to the growing tensions, a curfew was implemented, with assurances from Mayor Bass that vandalism would not be tolerated, distinguishing peaceful protesters from those engaging in criminal activities.
As states brace for future protests, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced a deployment of National Guard troops without prior notification to local officials, eliciting concerns from San Antonio’s outgoing mayor at a press conference.
He emphasized the importance of peaceful protest and the community’s capability to handle dissent responsibly.
As preparations for upcoming protests continue, it remains essential for community leaders, law enforcement, and federal agents to navigate these complex dynamics while balancing safety and constitutional rights.
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