After weeks of tension over the presence of federal troops in Los Angeles to quell immigration enforcement protests, a portion of the National Guard has been ordered to stand down and shift focus back to wildfire duties. Per a report by NBC Los Angeles, U.S. Northern Command confirmed the release of 150 California National Guard members, initially federalized by the Trump administration without Governor Gavin Newsom's consent.
These 150 troops being returned to their state duties is a move that brings mild relief amidst the state's growing wildfires, although it remains a fraction of the 4,100 National Guard troops and 700 Marines activated last month, and protests over immigration raids persist. According to Fox News, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth approved their release following a recommendation from Gen. Gregory Guillot, commander of U.S. Northern Command, this decision coming amidst a sharp increase in reported wildfires across the state compared to last year.
While this development has been seen as a concession by some, the crux of the problem remains, as Task Force 51, led by Maj. Gen. Scott M. Sherman, continues to oversee federal protection missions with thousands of troops still in Los Angeles. Echoing frustrations, Gov. Newsom's office stated, "These men and women signed up to serve — not to be Trump’s political props," as obtained by Fox News Digital. The governor has been a vocal opponent to the federalizing of National Guard troops for these protests, insisting that local law enforcement is equipped to manage without federal intervention.
The initial request to send 200 National Guard members back to wildfire containment duties highlights the ongoing balancing act between maintaining law and order during protests and fulfilling critical roles in emergency response throughout the state. As per The Associated Press, President Trump's contention that "there has been an invasion" of migrants without legal permission had set the stage for ongoing disputes over the proper use of National Guard resources, whereas Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, countered claims of such an invasion during a congressional budget hearing, alluding only to "some border issues."
Information pertaining to the release of National Guard members and the maintained scale of Task Force 51's operations can be accessed through U.S. Northern Command Public Affairs, clarifying numbers and disposition while fire risks continue their seasonal climb, as stated in the official press release provided by U.S. Northern Command.
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