In a significant move signaling the Trump administration’s firm stance on law and order, 700 U.S. Marines were ordered to leave Los Angeles on Monday.
The withdrawal marks the end of their successful deployment to quell the unrest in the city that had become a flashpoint for rioting and violence over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.
The Marines had been sent to Los Angeles in early June after violent riots broke out against ICE actions, with city leaders expressing opposition to the deployment.
The Trump administration had federalized 4,000 National Guard troops and deployed the Marines to protect federal buildings, including the ICE office and detention facilities in downtown Los Angeles.
In a statement on the withdrawal, Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell praised the Marines for their professionalism and discipline during the operation, stating:
“With stability returning to Los Angeles, the Secretary has directed the redeployment of the 700 Marines whose presence sent a clear message: lawlessness will not be tolerated,” Parnell said.
“Their rapid response, unwavering discipline, and unmistakable presence were instrumental in restoring order and upholding the rule of law.”
The move comes after a series of violent anti-ICE protests erupted in Los Angeles, fueled by tensions over the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Many of the protests were marked by clashes with law enforcement, culminating in destruction and disorder.
The Marines were strategically deployed to defend federal properties, sending a powerful message to the violent demonstrators: the rule of law would prevail.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Gov. Gavin Newsom led efforts to remove federal troops, accusing the Trump administration of violating constitutional limits.
However, the Democrat leaders were met with fierce opposition from many conservatives who backed the federal government’s intervention.
Bass, however, celebrated the Marines’ departure, calling it “another win for Los Angeles” and claiming it was a victory for those serving in the military:
“This is another win for Los Angeles, but this is also a win for those serving this country in uniform,” Bass said.
“We took the administration to court and won; now we continue that momentum with today’s news.
“Los Angeles stands with our troops, which is why we are glad they are leaving.”
Despite the court victories for Newsom and Bass, the legal battle is far from over.
The Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts military involvement in civilian law enforcement, was at the heart of the dispute, with Gov. Newsom arguing that the deployment violated this law.
While Newsom initially won in court, the appeals court overturned that ruling, allowing the federal government to maintain control of the National Guard troops.
The legal wrangling is expected to continue, with a federal court hearing set for next month to further address whether the federal government’s deployment of troops violated the Posse Comitatus Act.
Federal government control over the National Guard troops had been in place for the entirety of their 60-day deployment, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth having the discretion to extend or shorten the mission based on evolving circumstances on the ground.
Trump’s hardline approach has clearly resonated with many conservatives who see this as a firm stand against what they view as liberal sanctuary policies and disregard for federal authority.
As the deployment of Marines and National Guard troops wraps up, the fight over the future of law enforcement in sanctuary cities like Los Angeles is far from over.
This showdown has brought into sharp focus the growing divide between federal and local authorities, with some cities openly defying federal orders, while others, especially conservatives, call for more strong federal action to maintain order and defend the rule of law.
This incident is a reminder of the administration’s commitment to upholding America’s laws and sovereignty, even if it means stepping into legal battles with states like California, which wants to undermine federal authority.
The lawlessness in cities like Los Angeles must be reined in for good; otherwise, this is just the beginning of a longer struggle over the future of U.S. immigration policy.
READ MORE – Gavin Newsom Attended Luxury Wine-Tasting Event While Rioters Destroyed Los Angeles
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