by Adam Israel in Politics

The Trump administration is facing intense backlash for its deployment of Marines and National Guard troops to Los Angeles amidst protests against ICE raids. California is seeking an emergency court order to limit the use of these troops, while the administration is digging in, stating it's not afraid to expand its legal authority. A curfew remains in place for parts of downtown Los Angeles, though the number of arrests has been described as "minor." Similar protests are erupting in other major US cities, including New York, Chicago, Austin, and Washington, D.C., raising concerns about a nationwide escalation. In Omaha, Nebraska, the mayor expressed concerns about ICE operations creating "unnecessary fear," and stated he would resist any deployment of the National Guard. Protests in New York City involved a diverse group of demonstrators, including long-standing opponents of immigration enforcement, pro-Palestinian organizations, and anarchists. Law enforcement officials are monitoring the situation closely, concerned about the potential for criminal groups to operate under the cover of the protests. In Los Angeles, National Guard troops have temporarily detained civilians, but quickly handed them over to law enforcement. The Los Angeles County Sheriff is investigating whether a conspiracy is behind the crimes committed during the protests, while the District Attorney has announced five criminal cases related to the protests. Meanwhile, nannies in Los Angeles express concerns about being profiled and detained by ICE while working, citing instances of colleagues being detained. Despite the situation, some residents emphasize the largely peaceful nature of the protests and highlight the historical context of the current events. Republican attorneys general from multiple states filed an amicus brief supporting the Trump administration's actions, while Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass pushed back on the portrayal of the protests as widespread riots, stating that the curfew is limited to a small area and that the situation is not an insurrection. A curfew remains in effect for parts of downtown Los Angeles, and Mayor Bass is working to arrange a call with President Trump to discuss the situation.