National Guard Deployment to Act as a Deterrent

Introduction to the Crisis

The situation in Los Angeles took a drastic turn when President Trump made a tense, late-night phone call to Governor Gavin Newsom, emphasizing the need to "get the police in gear." This call was prompted by evidence of theft at a 7-Eleven and federal law enforcement officers suffering lacerations. The president’s patience wore thin, leading to the historic action of federalizing the National Guard less than 24 hours later.

The Decision to Deploy the National Guard

According to Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, the decision to deploy the National Guard was made with the expectation that it would prevent and deter violence. The president took bold action on Saturday evening to protect federal detention spaces, federal buildings, and federal personnel. However, the opposite occurred, with the worst violence yet taking place on Sunday, including rioters torching and hurling concrete at police cars, just hours after National Guard troops arrived in Los Angeles County.

Assessment of the Protests

The protests had been largely peaceful throughout Friday and Saturday, with only isolated instances of violent activity. Leavitt attributed the escalation of violence to the failure of local leaders, including Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, to allow the Los Angeles Police Department to work alongside federal authorities to enforce immigration laws and detain violent criminals. This, she claimed, had "handicapped" the police department’s ability to do its job.

Potential Legal Consequences

The president and his immigration czar, Tom Homan, have suggested that political leadership could face arrest for "obstructive" behavior. Leavitt reiterated that breaking the law would result in consequences, implying that if Governor Newsom obstructs federal enforcement or breaks federal laws, he could be subject to arrest. This stance reflects the administration’s commitment to enforcing the law, regardless of political position.

Consideration of the Insurrection Act

While Leavitt would not speculate on whether the president will invoke the Insurrection Act, which allows the suspension of Posse Comitatus and enables the military to engage in local law enforcement, she noted that the president referred to some rioters as "insurrectionists." This could potentially lay the groundwork for invoking the law. The president’s primary focus is on restoring law and order in California and protecting law-abiding citizens, with all options remaining on the table.

Deployment Details

The president’s order directs 2,000 National Guard troops to protect federal buildings in the city, with a deployment period of up to 60 days. Leavitt declined to provide a specific timeline for the operation, indicating that it would continue until the violence at the protests ceases. The White House is fully focused on resolving the issue, aiming to create an environment where citizens can peacefully protest without disruption from violent elements.

Conclusion

The deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles represents a significant escalation in the federal government’s response to the protests. Despite the initial intention to deter violence, the situation has worsened, leading to considerations of invoking the Insurrection Act. The administration’s stance on law and order, and its willingness to take bold action, underscores its commitment to protecting both federal interests and the rights of citizens to peaceful protest.

FAQs

Q: Why did President Trump decide to deploy the National Guard?

A: President Trump deployed the National Guard in response to escalating violence and to protect federal detention spaces, buildings, and personnel, with the aim of deterring further violence.

Q: What is the Insurrection Act, and how might it be applied?

A: The Insurrection Act is a law that allows the president to suspend Posse Comitatus, enabling the military to engage in local law enforcement. It could be invoked if the president deems it necessary to restore law and order, potentially in response to the actions of rioters being termed as "insurrectionists."

Q: How long will the National Guard deployment last?

A: The deployment is authorized for up to 60 days, but the actual duration will depend on the cessation of violence at the protests, as indicated by the White House.

Q: What are the potential legal consequences for local leaders?

A: Local leaders, including Governor Newsom, could face arrest if they are found to be obstructing federal enforcement or breaking federal laws, according to the White House press secretary.

Q: What is the administration’s stance on peaceful protest?

A: The administration supports and will protect the fundamental right to peaceful protest, distinguishing between law-abiding citizens exercising this right and violent disruptors.