Tensions remain high as the city is gripped by the divide between local and federal powers
The Los Angeles Police Department moved swiftly on Wednesday night to quell disorder stemming from anti-deportation protests, charging crowds on horses and firing “less lethal” munitions to clear protesters.
After the initial burst of activity, the downtown area – under a second night of curfew imposed by Mayor Karen Bass – was calmer, with a heavy police presence designed to prevent a repeat of the unrest that has led to 600 arrests since the weekend and acts of vandalism and looting.
Tensions remain high though as the city is gripped by the divide between local and federal powers. California Governor Gavin Newsom used a national address to slam President Donald Trump for activating 700 active-duty Marines and authorising the deployment of up to 4,000 National Guard troops in Los Angeles.
“Democracy is under assault right before our eyes,” Newsom said. “This moment we have feared has arrived.”
