LOS ANGELES, June 12 (Alliance News): Protests against hardline immigration policies intensified across the United States on Wednesday, with Los Angeles witnessing a sixth consecutive day of demonstrations.
Over 1,000 protesters marched peacefully through the city as California prepared for a court battle with the White House over President Donald Trump’s military deployment to assist immigration enforcement.
Despite a peaceful atmosphere during the day, city authorities expected another night of curfew due to previous incidents of vandalism and looting.
Protesters denounced Trump’s portrayal of Los Angeles as chaotic, with many rejecting claims of widespread violence. “Our city is not burning,” said 66-year-old protester Lynn Sturgis.
The demonstrations erupted after a sudden surge in immigration raids targeting undocumented migrants.
While some pockets of violence were reported—such as attacks on police and the burning of autonomous taxis—Los Angeles police say they are managing the situation with 8,500 officers.
President Trump, who campaigned on a strict immigration agenda, ordered 4,700 troops to California, including 700 active-duty Marines, despite opposition from Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom.
Trump defended the move, claiming it prevented the city from “burning to the ground.” The Pentagon reported the operation will cost taxpayers $134 million.
Governor Newsom accused Trump of using military deployment for political gain. His administration has filed for a temporary restraining order to block the troops from working alongside immigration agents. “Democracy is under assault,” Newsom warned.
Meanwhile, protests spread nationwide to cities like Manhattan, St. Louis, Indianapolis, and San Antonio.
In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has also deployed National Guard units. Organizers plan a major “No Kings” protest on Saturday in Washington D.C., coinciding with Trump’s 79th birthday and a military parade marking the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the federal crackdown, blaming the unrest on “provocative” raids ordered from Washington.
Videos circulating online showed masked federal agents using forceful tactics in migrant arrests, raising further concerns over civil liberties.
