Newsom Blasts Trump Did He Intentionally Ignite L.A. Protests?

Newsom Accuses Trump of "Fanning the Flames" of L.A. Protests

California Governor Gavin Newsom has delivered a blistering critique of former President Donald Trump, accusing him of deliberately escalating tensions during protests in Los Angeles. In a video address to the state, Newsom asserted that Trump intentionally "fanned the flames" of unrest, endangering peaceful protesters and targeting hardworking immigrant families.

Newsom's remarks came in response to Trump's claims that deploying the California National Guard and U.S. Marines was necessary to quell civil unrest. The governor painted a starkly different picture, arguing that state and local law enforcement were effectively maintaining peace before federal intervention.

"Donald Trump’s government isn’t protecting our communities — they’re traumatizing our communities," Newsom stated. "And that seems to be the entire point."

Here's a breakdown of the key accusations and counter-arguments:

• Trump's Claim: Troops were sent to protect immigration agents from "vicious and violent mobs."
• Newsom's Rebuttal: State and local law enforcement had the situation under control before federal authorities deployed "tear gas," "flash-bang grenades," and "rubber bullets" on peaceful protesters.
• Newsom's Accusation: Trump "illegally" called up the California National Guard, exacerbating the situation.

Newsom further alleged that Trump's actions were a deliberate attempt to incite violence and chaos, diverting attention from his actions in Washington and asserting "dictatorial tendencies."

The conflict has escalated into a legal battle. Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a request for a restraining order to halt what they describe as the "Department of Defense’s illegal militarization of Los Angeles" and the takeover of a California National Guard unit. This follows a lawsuit filed by California against the Trump administration, arguing that the deployment of the guard without the governor's consent violated the U.S. Constitution.

Despite the ongoing conflict, Trump initially commented on his "good relationship" with Newsom before blaming the governor for the unrest. He claimed that if the federal government hadn't intervened, "Los Angeles would be burning down right now."

Trump has characterized the protesters as paid "insurrectionists," "agitators," and "troublemakers." He also referenced the upcoming Olympics in Los Angeles, suggesting that the unrest reflects poorly on the city's preparedness.

The rhetoric has become increasingly heated. Trump's former border policy advisor, Tom Homan, even suggested arresting Newsom, a comment that Newsom likened to behavior from an "authoritarian regime."

Even House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) weighed in, suggesting Newsom should be "tarred and feathered."

Newsom responded by accusing Johnson of abdicating his responsibility for Congress to serve as a check on the White House. He warned that "other states are next."

In his address, Newsom implored protesters to exercise their free-speech rights peacefully. "What Donald Trump wants most is your fealty. Your silence. To be complicit in this moment. Do not give in to him."

The situation remains tense, with legal challenges and heated political rhetoric continuing to fuel the conflict. Newsom's forceful condemnation underscores the deep divisions and ongoing scrutiny surrounding the events that unfolded during the protests.

The clash between Newsom and Trump highlights the delicate balance between federal authority and states' rights, particularly during times of civil unrest. It serves as a reminder of the importance of peaceful assembly and the need for responsible leadership in navigating moments of crisis.

Tags: Gavin Newsom, Donald Trump, Los Angeles, protests, California, National Guard, immigrants, immigration, civil unrest, military

Source: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-06-10/newsom-says-about-immigration-l-a-raids