Trump Expands Military Presence in U.S. Cities, Redefining Troops' Role at Home

President Trump initially increased the deployment of active-duty military personnel along the southwestern border of the United States.

Subsequently, as protests erupted in Los Angeles over deportation policies, he sent the National Guard to assist in quelling the demonstrations.

Despite opposition from California’s governor, the administration reinforced the effort by deploying Marines alongside additional National Guard units.

Since taking office in January, the president has progressively expanded the domestic use of military forces, pushing legal and political boundaries by involving troops trained for foreign combat in roles typically reserved for local law enforcement and Border Patrol agents.

At present, the number of U.S. military personnel stationed in Los Angeles exceeds the combined forces deployed in Syria and Iraq, a point highlighted by the Pentagon’s chief spokesperson on social media.

The spokesperson emphasized that this approach reflects the priorities of many Americans, framing it as a measure to protect the nation and its citizens.