700 Marines Deployed to Manage Protests in Los Angeles: What You Need to Know

Over 700 Marines from the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in California are being deployed to Los Angeles to assist with ongoing protests. This move coincides with President Donald Trump's activation of thousands of National Guard members, undertaken without the approval of California’s governor or LA’s mayor. The mobilization of an entire Marine battalion represents a notable intensification of military presence aimed at demonstrators, though sources indicate that their precise role remains unclear. The Marines, specifically from the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, are expected to enhance the force already on the ground. This deployment marks a rare instance of Marines responding domestically, reminiscent of the 1992 LA riots. Governor Gavin Newsom has criticized this action as “unwarranted” and “unprecedented.” Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell emphasized the need for seamless communication among agencies to ensure a coherent response amid escalating tensions. The evolving situation continues to draw national attention.