As of today, June 9, 2025, Los Angeles is experiencing significant unrest following recent immigration enforcement actions. Thousands have taken to the streets to protest ICE raids, leading to clashes with law enforcement. In response, President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to the city without the request of California Governor Gavin Newsom. Governor Newsom and other state officials have condemned the deployment as unlawful and are preparing legal action against the federal government.
The situation has escalated with reports of vehicles set on fire, use of tear gas, and rubber bullets by police. Notably, Australian journalist Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet while reporting live from the protests, raising concerns about press freedom and safety.
This is deeply troubling and heartbreaking to read. The scale of unrest and the federal response raise serious concerns—not just about immigration policy, but also about states’ rights, public safety, and the treatment of both protesters and the press.
The deployment of National Guard troops without the governor’s request sets a dangerous precedent, and the injury of a journalist like Lauren Tomasi while doing her job underscores the growing risks reporters face while covering civil unrest.
Regardless of where one stands politically, the right to peaceful protest and press freedom are core democratic values. Hoping for de-escalation, accountability, and real dialogue soon. My thoughts are with everyone affected in Los Angeles right now.