Trump Deploys National Guard to LA Protest Zone; Journalist Struck by Rubber Bullet
In a sweeping move this week, former President Donald Trump authorized the deployment of up to 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles amidst escalating protests sparked by ICE raids targeting undocumented immigrants.
What Sparked the Protests?
Protests ignited after federal immigration agents conducted raids in multiple locations, including homes and businesses in Latino neighborhoods. Residents decried the actions as targeting families, prompting widespread demonstration in downtown LA, including the blockage of the 101 Freeway :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Military Intervention and Political Fallout
Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the federal intervention, calling the deployment "unconstitutional" and announced plans to file a lawsuit :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
Journalist Hit by Rubber Bullet During Live Broadcast
A shocking moment was captured live on air when Australian **TV reporter Lauren Tomasi** was struck in the leg by a rubber bullet fired by LAPD :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7} :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9} :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
Escalation on the Streets
Downtown LA descended into chaos: tear gas engulfed intersections, cars—including self-driving Waymo vehicles—were set ablaze, and protesters erected makeshift barricades :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12} :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14} :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
Media Freedom Concerns
The targeting of accredited journalists has fueled alarm among press freedom advocates. The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs issued warnings about the safety of its nationals, and The Guardian described the rubber bullet strike as a stark reminder of the **risks reporters face** :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
National vs. State Authority
This marks the first federal deployment of the National Guard to LA without state approval since 1965 :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18} :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.
Related Coverage
- Previous Article: National Guard Deployed in LA
- More Trump Coverage
- CBS News: Immigration Protests Overview
What's Next?
The federal-state showdown continues. Gov. Newsom’s lawsuit is pending, and protests show no signs of stopping. Journalistic organizations are appealing for protection protocols, while media outlets reassess safety guidelines for frontline coverage.
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