Karen Bass demands end to National Guard deployment in Los Angeles

In June 2020, amid rising tensions due to protests against federal immigration raids, the Trump administration deployed around 4,000 California National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles. This decision was controversial, with both Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom declaring the deployment unnecessary and inflammatory. The deployment, officially aimed at addressing incidents of violence, was executed under Trump's invocation of Title 10. Reports soon revealed a significant discontent among the troops, with many expressing skepticism about their mission to suppress protests. A New York Times article highlighted low morale and concerns from Guard members that such actions could negatively impact recruitment for years to come. Some soldiers sought counseling, and several leaders who questioned the mission faced reassignment. With the growing disillusionment, the effectiveness of Trump's directives may be jeopardized, pushing local leaders like Mayor Bass to advocate for an end to the military presence in the city. By mid-July 2020, approximately 2,000 troops were released from their mission, with the remaining members continuing to serve without a defined purpose, raising further questions about the justification for their initial deployment.