LOS ANGELES, CA – Several Waymo self-driving vehicles were set ablaze in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday as protests against federal immigration raids escalated, leading to the deployment of the National Guard and strong objections from California’s Governor regarding federal intervention.

Key Insights:

• Waymo Vehicles Torched – Multiple Waymo self-driving cars were vandalized and set on fire in downtown Los Angeles during Sunday’s protests.
• National Guard Deployed – President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of approximately 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles to respond to the unrest, a move made without the request or approval of California’s state government.
• California Officials Object – California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have criticized the federal deployment of the National Guard, asserting it is a “purposefully inflammatory” act that could escalate tensions.

The unrest in Los Angeles entered its third day on Sunday, fueled by ongoing federal immigration enforcement operations. The protests intensified with clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement, resulting in property damage.

Waymo Vehicles Damaged Amid Downtown Clashes

Images and videos circulating on social media showed multiple Waymo (Alphabet Inc.‘s self-driving car unit) vehicles vandalized, with at least two set on fire on Los Angeles Street. Protesters reportedly slashed tires, smashed windows, and spray-painted anti-ICE messages on the cars. Some individuals were seen using what appeared to be a makeshift flamethrower to ignite the interiors of the vehicles. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to extinguish the blazes, while the Los Angeles Police Department warned of toxic gases released from burning lithium-ion batteries. A spokesperson for Waymo confirmed the damage and stated the company was in communication with law enforcement, indicating no belief that Waymo was specifically targeted. What were the specific targets of the protestors if not Waymo?

Federal Troops Sent to Los Angeles Amid Protests

In response to the escalating situation, President Donald Trump signed a memorandum deploying approximately 2,000 National Guard troops to safeguard federal staff and assets. This deployment marks a rare instance where a president has activated the National Guard without a state’s request or approval since 1965. Additionally, the U.S. Northern Command announced that approximately 500 active-duty Marines from Twentynine Palms, California, have been placed on “prepared to deploy” status should further augmentation be necessary to protect federal property and personnel. What precedent does this set for future federal interventions in state matters?

California Leadership Challenges Federal Intervention

California Governor Gavin Newsom strongly condemned the President’s decision to deploy the National Guard, labeling it “purposefully inflammatory” and a move that would “escalate tensions” rather than de-escalate the situation. Newsom stated he had formally requested the White House to rescind the deployment of troops and return them to his command, arguing that state and local authorities are best equipped to manage the unrest. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass echoed these concerns, calling the deployment a “chaotic escalation” that puts neighborhoods at risk. Both Newsom and Bass have emphasized the importance of peaceful protest while urging residents to avoid violence and respect law enforcement. What are the potential legal ramifications of this federal deployment without state consent?