California Governor Newsom Condemns Trump Militarization Amid LA Protests

California Governor Gavin Newsom delivered a forceful address condemning President Donald Trump's deployment of the National Guard and active-duty Marines to Los Angeles amid protests against ICE raids, calling it an illegal militarization and an assault on democracy. Newsom highlighted the targeting of Latino neighborhoods with aggressive federal raids, including the detention of a pregnant U.S. citizen and the separation of families, which sparked protests that escalated after the federal military presence increased. He accused Trump of escalating violence and undermining constitutional rights, particularly freedom of speech and due process, and warned that these actions represent authoritarian overreach threatening democracy nationwide. Newsom emphasized that the militarization was done without consultation with state or local officials and criticized the president for using military force against American citizens rather than focusing on serious criminal immigration cases. The governor urged Californians and Americans to stand peacefully and hold leaders accountable, framing this moment as a critical test for democracy and citizen responsibility. The White House dismissed Newsom's speech, with a spokeswoman criticizing his leadership and suggesting he focus on governing rather than public addresses.