LA Mayor Bass Sets Downtown Curfew Amid Anti-ICE Protest Chaos
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has declared a local emergency and imposed an overnight curfew in the city’s downtown area following five days of intensifying protests against federal immigration enforcement actions. The curfew, effective from 8 PM Tuesday to 6 AM Wednesday, covers a one-square-mile zone bordered by the 5, 10, and 110 freeways. Bass announced the measures during an evening press conference, citing the need to halt vandalism and looting that have marred the demonstrations. “I have declared a local emergency and issued a curfew for downtown Los Angeles to stop the vandalism, to stop the looting,” she stated.
The unrest began in response to immigration raids conducted by federal agents in areas including the Westlake District, downtown, and South Los Angeles. Since Friday, nearly 200 individuals have been arrested as protesters clashed with law enforcement. On Monday night alone, 23 businesses were looted, prompting Bass to warn that those who do not live or work in the curfew zone should avoid the area. “Law enforcement will arrest individuals who break the curfew, and you will be prosecuted,” she said. Exemptions apply to residents, workers, credentialed media, and people experiencing homelessness, as confirmed by LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell.
The protests have drawn significant attention, with President Donald Trump deploying thousands of California National Guard troops and 700 U.S. Marines to secure federal buildings, a decision made without California Governor Gavin Newsom’s approval. Newsom criticized the move on X, stating, “Commandeering a state’s National Guard without consulting the Governor of that state is illegal and immoral. California will be taking him to court.” He further accused Trump of exacerbating tensions, writing, “Donald Trump is putting fuel on this fire.”
Despite the curfew and heightened security, demonstrators have vowed to continue their actions, arguing that the federal raids unfairly target immigrant communities. The situation remains tense as Los Angeles grapples with balancing public safety and the right to protest.