500 Marines Mobilized for LA Protests: Illegal Escalation or Necessary Response?
Over 700 Marines have been mobilized to Los Angeles, joining approximately 1,700 National Guard members already deployed. This deployment, ordered by President Trump without the consent of state or city officials, significantly escalates the military presence at the protests. The Marines’ specific role remains unclear, though they are expected to augment the National Guard and are prohibited from law enforcement unless the Insurrection Act is invoked. The action is unprecedented, with Governor Newsom calling it “unwarranted,” while the Marines’ deployment is described as supporting federal personnel and property.
John Q. Hosedrinker