Booker, Trump Clash Over LA Protest Response

Senator Cory Booker described recent anti-ICE demonstrations in Los Angeles as mostly peaceful, but acknowledged violence against law enforcement is unacceptable amid documented clashes, including protesters throwing rocks, setting vehicles on fire, and defacing buildings. Booker attributed the unrest to President Trump's immigration enforcement policies, specifically criticizing arrests of individuals attending immigration hearings. President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles against the wishes of state and city officials, arguing local authorities failed to control the situation. Booker called the deployment a break from tradition that risked escalating tensions and contrasted Trump's actions in LA with his response to the January 6 Capitol riot, labeling it hypocritical. Federal officials and Republican lawmakers disputed Booker's depiction, citing injuries and property damage as evidence of violent unrest. The situation remained tense as troops and federal agents continued efforts to restore order amid ongoing political debate.