JD Vance issues warning to Democrat governors over anti-ICE riots
Vice President JD Vance didn’t mince words in Los Angeles, signaling a tough stance against urban chaos. He warned Democrat governors that the Trump administration won’t sit idly by if cities descend into riot-fueled destruction, as Breitbart reports. The message was clear: protect your citizens, or federal forces will.
The VP addressed the nation from Los Angeles, where recent riots had gripped the city. The Trump administration’s response, including federalizing the California National Guard, has begun to restore order. This decisive action sets the stage for a broader policy on public safety.
Earlier this month, President Donald Trump federalized 2,000 California National Guardsmen to quell the Los Angeles unrest. Hundreds of U.S. Marines were also deployed to bolster these efforts. Vance noted that the situation has “gotten a lot better,” crediting the presence of these forces.
Trump’s authority upheld
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit recently affirmed Trump’s authority to federalize the California National Guard. In a 38-page opinion, the court extended a stay on a lower court’s restraining order, siding with the administration. The panel, including two Trump-appointed judges, held that Trump’s judgment deserved deference.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s objection -- that Trump failed to consult him -- was swiftly dismissed by the court. The judges ruled that Trump fulfilled his duty by informing the governor’s office. This legal victory solidifies the administration’s ability to act decisively in crises.
Vance praised the court’s ruling as a “completely legitimate” use of federal power. He emphasized that the administration’s goal is simple: ensure local leaders enforce laws to prevent chaos. The alternative -- allowing “violent rioters” to torch cities -- will trigger federal intervention, he vowed.
Vance criticizes local leadership
During his Los Angeles speech, Vance aimed at Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. He accused them of encouraging unauthorized migration, which he claimed has “strained” law enforcement and public services. This critique ties the rioting to broader policy failures, in his view.
Vance’s remarks weren’t just tough talk; they carried a policy ultimatum. “If you enforce your laws,” he said, “we’re not going to send in the National Guard.” This places the onus on local leaders to maintain order without federal oversight.
Democrats, including former Vice President Kamala Harris, fired back, calling Trump’s National Guard deployment a “dangerous escalation.” Harris and Newsom argued it was meant to “provoke chaos” rather than restore peace. Their criticism, however, ignores the improving situation Vance highlighted.
National Guard’s role expands
The Pentagon recently announced that an additional 2,000 California National Guardsmen are being federalized.
Chief spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed this escalation to support ongoing efforts in Los Angeles. The move underscores the administration’s commitment to stabilizing the city.
Vance noted that soldiers and Marines remain a “necessary part” of the response, according to local feedback.
This suggests a sustained federal presence until the threat of violence fully subsides. It’s a pragmatic approach, prioritizing citizen safety over political optics.
Democrats’ objections ring hollow when stacked against the reality on the ground. Calling federal intervention “provocative” dismisses the destruction that prompted it. Harris and Newsom seem more concerned with scoring points than addressing the root issues.
Broader message to governors
Vance’s warning extends beyond California to every Democrat-led state. He made it clear that the Trump administration will act if governors fail to protect their communities. This policy draws a line in the sand for local leadership nationwide.
The Ninth Circuit’s ruling strengthens this position, affirming Trump’s broad authority over the National Guard. The court’s deference to his judgment sets a precedent for future interventions. Governors who ignore this risk will lose control to federal forces.
Vance’s Los Angeles speech was a masterclass in clarity: enforce the law, or the feds will. It’s a message that resonates with Americans tired of seeing cities spiral into chaos.
While Democrats cry foul, the administration’s focus remains on protecting citizens, not placating critics.