Former Vice President Kamala Harris expressed concern over President Donald Trump’s recent decision to deploy California National Guard troops to Los Angeles in response to escalating unrest related to immigration enforcement.
In a statement, Harris—who is originally from Los Angeles—called the move a “dangerous escalation,” suggesting that deploying military force could increase tensions rather than calm them.
“Los Angeles is my home. And like so many Americans, I am appalled at what we are witnessing on the streets of our city,” Harris said.
“Deploying the National Guard is a dangerous escalation meant to provoke chaos.”
She linked the move to broader federal actions on immigration, referencing recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Southern California. Harris described these efforts as part of what she sees as a “calculated agenda to spread panic and division,” though she acknowledged that most protests were peaceful—even amid reports of vandalism, vehicle damage, and injuries to federal agents.
The deployment came after California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, both Democrats, chose not to involve state resources in the federal immigration operations. In response, President Trump federalized 2,000 National Guard troops, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth placed 500 Marines on standby at Camp Pendleton.
Local Leaders Respond
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who is running for California governor in 2026, criticized Harris and other Democratic leaders. He posted footage of unrest on social media, arguing that downplaying the situation only worsens public trust.
“This is Gavin’s Lawless California. Our state deserves better,” Bianco tweeted, referencing Harris’ statement and showing video of street fires and property damage.
Bianco also issued a formal statement affirming the importance of peaceful protest but warning that law enforcement would adopt a “zero-tolerance” approach to illegal activity during demonstrations.
“While RSO will ensure every person’s constitutional right to protest, we will also exercise a zero-tolerance policy for any criminal activity,” he stated.
Trump Reacts
President Trump also responded to the incidents and criticism, writing on his Truth Social platform that those involved in the attacks on ICE personnel were “paid insurrectionists.” He accused Newsom and Bass of poor leadership and called for them to apologize to Los Angeles residents for the damage caused.
