Fact Check: Trump Deploys 4,000 National Guard Troops to Los Angeles Amid Protests
What We Know
In June 2025, President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of approximately 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles in response to escalating protests against his administration's immigration policies. The protests were characterized by significant unrest, including confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement, which prompted the federal government to take action to protect federal property and personnel (AP News).
The deployment was controversial and met with opposition from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who argued that the presence of military troops would further inflame tensions. However, a federal appeals court ruled that Trump could maintain control over the National Guard troops, allowing the deployment to proceed despite legal challenges (NPR).
Analysis
The claim that Trump deployed 4,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles is supported by multiple credible sources. The Associated Press reported that the deployment was ordered following protests against immigration enforcement, with the National Guard's role being to ensure the safety of federal property and personnel (AP News). Additionally, NPR confirmed that the deployment included both National Guard and Marine personnel, emphasizing the legal battles surrounding the president's authority to federalize state troops (NPR).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news organizations with a history of accurate reporting. The Associated Press is known for its fact-based journalism, while NPR is a respected public media outlet. Both outlets provided detailed accounts of the events, including the legal context and the reactions from state officials.
However, it is important to note that the deployment was met with significant political backlash, with critics arguing that it represented an overreach of presidential power. The legal proceedings surrounding the deployment also highlight the contentious nature of federal-state relations regarding the National Guard (NBC News).
Conclusion
The claim that Trump deployed 4,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles amid protests is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that the deployment occurred as a direct response to protests against immigration enforcement, and it was accompanied by significant legal and political controversy.
