A recent Washington Post-George Mason University poll shows U.S. opinions are seriously split on the recent troop deployment in Los Angeles. With 41% backing the move and 44% opposing it, many are left wondering what this means for public safety and immigration policies.
The survey, conducted via text with over 1,000 adults (including 217 Californians) on June 10, highlights a clear political rift. Party lines are striking: a whopping 86% of Republicans support the deployment, while only about 10% of Democrats do, with 76% of Democrats voicing their discontent. Even among independents, opposition leads with 48% against the move compared to 33% in favor.
In a bid to address tensions triggered by aggressive ICE raids in immigrant communities, President Donald Trump deployed roughly 4,000 National Guard members and mobilized 700 Marines to bolster security in Los Angeles. The troops are tasked with protecting federal property and assisting agents—an effort that has stirred both support and controversy.
In response to sporadic looting and clashes between protesters and police, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass imposed a curfew in about 2.6 square kilometers of downtown, while Governor Gavin Newsom filed a lawsuit claiming the deployment undermines state authority and could inflame unrest. A federal judge recently reviewed the emergency motion, though no ruling has been announced yet. 🚨
The unrest isn't contained to Los Angeles alone. Protests following the ICE raids have spread to cities like Chicago, New York, San Antonio, and Spokane, with curfews introduced in several locations to help manage the situation.
Interestingly, public sentiment on the demonstrations themselves is nearly as split: 39% support the protests, 40% oppose, and 21% remain unsure. Moreover, opinions on Trump's broader immigration strategy show 52% disapproval versus 37% in favor. Despite occasional incidents of vandalism, local officials report that nearly all residents in protest zones have remained peaceful, underscoring the complex nature of this nationwide debate. 🤔
As tensions continue to simmer, all eyes remain on Los Angeles and how these conflicting views will shape the future of public safety and immigration enforcement in the U.S.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
