California Governor
Gavin Newsom has openly defied President Donald Trump’s threats of arrest amid escalating protests in Los Angeles following sweeping immigration raids.
Newsom criticized Trump’s deployment of
2,000 National Guard troops to the city, calling the move
"purposefully inflammatory" and likening the president’s actions to those of a
"dictator."The governor demanded that Trump rescind the order, accusing the administration of
"inciting and provoking violence, creating mass chaos, militarizing cities and arresting opponents."This deployment marks the first time in 60 years a U.S. president has activated reserve military forces without a governor’s request, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats. Senator Chris Murphy stated,
"Trump isn’t trying to heal or keep the peace. He is looking to inflame and divide."The protests erupted after immigration raids in Los Angeles, leading to clashes between law enforcement and demonstrators. Newsom’s defiance highlights a growing power struggle between California and the federal government.
Political figures like Bernie Sanders have warned of a slide into authoritarianism, citing Trump’s aggressive tactics including lawsuits against critics and threats to impeach judges.
Despite threats from the Trump administration, Newsom remains resolute in his opposition, emphasizing the importance of constitutional rule and the rule of law amid the unrest.
Key quotes:"He is going after law firms who have clients who were against him. He’s going after universities that teach courses that he doesn’t like. He’s threatening to impeach judges who rule against him. And he’s usurping the powers of the United States congress. This guy wants all of the power. He does not believe in the constitution. He does not believe in the rule of law."
Stats:- 2,000 National Guard troops deployed to Los Angeles
- First presidential activation of reserve military without governor’s request in 60 years
The situation remains tense as Newsom balances managing protests and confronting federal overreach.
Sources: 
California Governor Gavin Newsom defied President Trump’s threats of arrest amid protests in Los Angeles sparked by immigration raids. Newsom criticized Trump’s deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops as inflammatory and accused the president of inciting violence and undermining constitutional rule during escalating clashes.
