Protests continue in Los Angeles after federal immigration authorities arrested more than 115 undocumented individuals over the weekend, prompting a sharp response from immigrant advocates and elected officials across California.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, those detained had prior records involving drug trafficking, assault, or domestic violence. Still, critics called the enforcement sweep excessive and unnecessary.
By Sunday, tensions escalated further when President Donald Trump deployed hundreds of California National Guard troops to respond to the protests. Then on Monday, the president announced that U.S. Marines would also be sent to assist.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom both pushed back, saying the federal deployment overrode local authority. Newsom announced that the state plans to sue the Trump administration over the move.
Santa Barbara Mayor Randy Rowse also voiced concerns about the federal response but said the city would not interfere with potential ICE operations if they were to extend to the Central Coast.
“We all swore to protect the Constitution, and that means we stand in line with law enforcement,” Rowse said. “But we wouldn’t go out and try to enforce something that’s out of our jurisdiction—like immigration. That’s not our job.”
Rowse emphasized the importance of residents knowing their rights, particularly if approached by law enforcement or immigration officers.
“As citizens, we’re not required to carry identification,” he said. “You don’t have to let people into your business or examine your records without a warrant.”
The situation in Los Angeles remains unknown as protests continue and community leaders throughout the state brace for the possibility of increased federal immigration activity.
