WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch Who's Winning the Los Angeles Deportation Fight, Donald Trump or Gavin Newsom?
Jun 12, 2025
Amid escalating tensions, Gavin Newsom positions himself as a key player against Donald Trump's deportation policies. Protests in Los Angeles spark a national movement while the governor navigates the complex immigration landscape in California. The planned surge of deportations raises concerns within immigrant communities and influences public sentiment on crime and quality of life. As deportation strategies intensify, mixed perceptions on immigration evolve, shaping future political ramifications for both state and federal leaders.
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Newsom's Risky Resistance Role
- Gavin Newsom positioned himself as the anti-Trump resistance leader during the Los Angeles deportation protests.
- His stance risks losing regardless of whether the National Guard helps or not, complicating his political gain.
Newsom's Political Constraints
- Newsom faced limited choices given California's large migrant population intertwined with the economy and Democratic politics.
- More finesse could have balanced opposing deportation of non-criminal immigrants while supporting removal of criminals.
Politics Drive Deportation Strategy
- Deportation ramp-up stems from political pressure by Stephen Miller demanding 3,000 arrests daily.
- Trump focuses on criminals despite potential broader sweeps, balancing public support with targeted enforcement.