Tom Homan confirms no plans to arrest Gavin Newsom amid tensions
- Tensions between the Trump administration and California Governor Gavin Newsom have escalated following protests in Los Angeles prompted by ICE actions.
- Tom Homan clarified there are no plans to arrest Newsom, stating that earlier statements were misunderstood.
- The conflict highlights significant issues regarding state-federal relations and handling of law enforcement during protests.
In the United States, tensions have escalated between the Trump administration and California Governor Gavin Newsom following protests triggered by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. On June 9, 2025, Tom Homan, Trump's 'border czar', clarified to CBS News that there were no intentions to arrest Newsom, despite earlier comments by President Trump suggesting such action might be taken. Homan emphasized that the statements had been misconstrued and that the governor had not crossed any legal boundaries warranting arrest. He indicated that those who impede ICE operations could face prosecution but left the determination of any such cases to the Justice Department. The backdrop to this situation includes ongoing disputes regarding the handling of protests in Los Angeles. These protests arose from ICE enforcement actions, leading to accusations against Newsom by Trump, who claimed the governor was incapable of controlling violence in the areas affected. In response to the unrest, Trump ordered the deployment of approximately 700 Marines and National Guard troops, escalating the conflict with state officials. Newsom has since filed a lawsuit against the federal government, arguing that the troop deployment was unconstitutional and occurred without the state's consent. Homan's acknowledgment that Newsom has not crossed a legal line represents a significant point in the ongoing discourse, suggesting that while accusations and tensions remain high, immediate legal actions against the governor are not forthcoming. The dialogue around this issue reflects broader themes of state versus federal authority, especially in the realms of immigration enforcement and public safety amidst protests. The administration's deployment of military support to Los Angeles has been met with criticism from local leaders, who argue that they can handle the situation without federal intervention. They assert that the presence of military forces could exacerbate an already volatile environment. Newsom's retort to Trump's comments, stating, 'Come and get me, tough guy,' highlights the escalating rhetoric between state leadership and the federal government. Overall, the situation remains fluid, with potential legal implications depending on how relations between local officials and federal authorities develop in the coming days.