Anti-ICE Protests Ignite Waymo Cars, National Guard Activated Los Angeles, San Francisco

Protests erupted across Los Angeles and San Francisco following President Donald Trump’s deployment of the National Guard without a governor’s request, intensifying clashes between federal agents conducting immigration raids and demonstrators. Thousands of protesters blocked freeways, set multiple Waymo autonomous vehicles on fire, and engaged in violent confrontations with law enforcement, who responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash bangs. At least five Waymo robotaxis were destroyed, causing significant damage estimated over $900,000, with similar vandalism reported against police vehicles in both cities. Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the federal troop deployment as unlawful, while White House officials defended the actions as necessary to address immigration issues. The unrest highlighted tensions between the Trump administration and California officials, as well as a broader debate over immigration enforcement and public safety. Elon Musk publicly condemned the vandalism of Waymo vehicles amid the protests, signaling concern from tech industry figures.