Trump is hyping a case to use American troops on domestic soil

President Donald Trump is once again casting himself as a wartime leader. But this time, the battle he envisions is not abroad—it’s on American soil.

In a move raising serious constitutional questions, Trump is using scenes of unrest in Los Angeles to justify deploying U.S. troops. He’s framing immigration protests and localized violence as an insurrection that requires military intervention. His rhetoric suggests a broader campaign, with Los Angeles as a test case for mass deportations and domestic crackdowns.

“If we didn’t act strongly, you’d have this happening all over the country,” Trump said Tuesday. “If it happens again, it will be met with greater force.”

At Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Trump gave a campaign-style speech to U.S. troops. He described parts of Los Angeles as being controlled by “transnational gangs,” vowing to “liberate” the city. “We will use every asset to restore law and order,” he said.

His remarks drew swift and strong reactions. California Gov. Gavin Newsom warned the country Tuesday night, saying, “Democracy is under assault before our eyes.” Newsom called Trump’s actions a “wrecking ball” to the U.S. system of checks and balances.

Critics say the unrest in L.A. is being exaggerated. While there have been incidents of looting and vandalism, local officials maintain the situation is under control. The protests have mostly been peaceful, and state leaders, including Mayor Karen Bass, say the crisis is being exploited.

“I think we’re an experiment,” Bass said. “If you can do this to L.A., it sends a message nationwide.”

The Department of Homeland Security also made headlines. Reports surfaced that Secretary Kristi Noem urged the military to arrest protesters. Legal experts warned this would likely violate federal law. DHS later said her request came before a meeting with the president.

Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla condemned the troop deployments. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Navy Secretary John Phelan, they wrote, “These are not extreme circumstances. Deploying troops without state approval is unjustifiable.”

Military involvement in domestic law enforcement is rare. Senator Susan Collins reminded the public that active-duty troops are usually barred from such operations.

The timing of Trump’s actions is also notable. The Army is celebrating its 250th anniversary with a military parade in Washington this weekend—on Trump’s 79th birthday. Abrams tanks are already stationed in West Potomac Park, enhancing the martial imagery Trump favors.

In the Oval Office, Trump struck a threatening tone. “If there’s any protest, they will be met with great force,” he warned. “These are people who hate our country.”

Critics see this language as part of a familiar playbook. Trump has a history of turning exaggerated crises into political advantage. In 2020, he falsely claimed he won the election. That narrative fueled the January 6 Capitol attack. Now, observers say, he’s using similar tactics to justify a military presence in American cities.

“This is more than bluster,” said Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a historian of authoritarian regimes. “Leaders like Trump create fear and chaos to present themselves as saviors.”

The administration says troops are guarding federal buildings—not confronting protesters. Still, the operation is costing taxpayers $134 million, and the Defense Department is exploring alternatives to the Insurrection Act.

Yet Trump has often followed through on bold declarations. He reshaped the executive branch during his return to power and continues to test the limits of presidential authority.

“This president is standing up for the average American,” Noem said. “He wants people to feel safe walking their kids to school.”

But many fear that the line between national security and political theater is blurring. As Trump told troops at Fort Bragg, “The only flag that will wave over the streets of Los Angeles is the American flag—so help me God.”

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