WASHINGTON – In response to reports that the Trump Administration deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to counter protesters in Los Angeles and threatened to deploy active-duty Marines, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) released the following statement:
“When due process was followed and only criminals were being targeted, there was little to no public outcry. Public protest has erupted because Donald Trump has abused due process, separated families, and deported kids.
“Civilian law enforcement—not the military—is responsible for enforcing the law and dealing with any violence in our streets. This is a waste of our troops’ time, a waste of taxpayer money, and an insult to the men and women who serve. As a Marine, I know our military exists to defend our country from foreign threats, not to batter American protestors.
“Trump isn’t trying to solve anything—he’s putting on a show to look tough on TV.
“I’m interested in solutions that will actually bring about law and order. I’ve released a border security and immigration reform plan that will unleash economic prosperity and make America safe. I will always stand up for our troops and make sure they are not used as political pawns.”
6/8/25