Pentagon Deploys 5,000 Troops to LA for Immigration Protest Response

Pentagon Deploys Troops to Los Angeles Amid Immigration Protests The Pentagon has announced a significant military presence in Los Angeles, deploying approximately 5,000 National Guard troops and Marines in response to recent immigration protests. This decision, which is anticipated to cost around $134 million, has ignited political discourse and has drawn legal scrutiny. According to Bryn MacDonnell, the acting comptroller of the Pentagon, the costs for this operation will be drawn from the Department of Defense's operations and maintenance budget. This funding will cover various expenses, such as travel, housing, and food for the deployed personnel. MacDonnell presented this financial breakdown during a Defense subcommittee hearing, marking the most detailed explanation regarding the administration's approach to the unrest in the area. The deployment comes as a reaction to President Trump’s policy on mass deportations, which has led to heightened tensions and protests. The troops' mission focuses primarily on safeguarding federal immigration agents and protecting government property amid ongoing demonstrations against the controversial immigration measures. Criticism has swiftly emerged, particularly from Democratic lawmakers and local officials in California. Many opponents argue that this military action represents an unwarranted escalation and have initiated legal proceedings aimed at withdrawing the troops from the region. During a recent hearing, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced inquiries regarding the deployment. Representative Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.) expressed skepticism about the deployment of active-duty forces, questioning its necessity and adherence to legal constraints. Hegseth stated, “President [Donald] Trump believes in law and order, so he has every authority,” reinforcing the administration's justification for the military's involvement. However, Aguilar raised concerns that the operation could potentially cross legal lines by aligning military duties too closely with domestic law enforcement, which is generally restricted unless the Insurrection Act is invoked. In light of these discussions, experts and former defense officials have indicated that while the deployment may be technically legal, it risks entangling the military in domestic policing and political matters.