California Governor Defies Trump Administration Over ICE Protests

Democrat Governor Gavin Newsom has escalated tensions in Los Angeles by daring federal border czar Tom Homan to arrest him for failing to stop violent protests against ICE raids. “Come after me. Arrest me. Let’s just get it over with, tough guy,” Newsom told NBC News. Homan had previously warned that Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass could face federal charges for hindering ICE operations.
The protests, now in their third day, have seen clashes between LAPD and anti-ICE demonstrators. President Trump deployed 2,000 California National Guard troops to the city, despite Newsom’s claims that federal intervention would worsen the situation. Newsom accused the administration of using federal power for political gain, calling the deployment “authoritarian” and “ego-driven.”
Meanwhile, Homan defended ICE actions, stating they had arrested gang members, sexual predators, and armed robbery convicts, making LA safer. He criticized Newsom for spreading anti-ICE rhetoric. Newsom, in response, vowed to file a lawsuit to halt the National Guard deployment, citing a lack of coordination with state authorities.
The LAPD has expressed being overwhelmed by the protests, as tensions continue to rise.

Published: 6/9/2025