Hegseth Engages Senate Democrats on Marine Deployment Amid Los Angeles Anti-ICE Protests

Hegseth Engages Senate Democrats on Marine Deployment Amid Los Angeles Anti-ICE Protests

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced off with Democratic senators during a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on Wednesday regarding the deployment of 700 Marines to Los Angeles. This military action coincides with ongoing protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE.

In his preliminary statement, Hegseth emphasized President Donald Trump’s directive to reinstate "warfighting, lethality, meritocracy, standards and readiness" within the Department of Defense. Senator Jack Reed, a Democrat from Rhode Island, scrutinized this focus during his questioning.

Reed highlighted that the Trump administration had federalized 4,000 California National Guard members and dispatched 700 Marines to Los Angeles. He remarked that this deployment adds to an approximate 11,000 military personnel currently stationed at the southern border to assist U.S. Customs and Border Protection. However, Hegseth corrected him, stating that around 13,000 military personnel are supporting efforts along the border, asserting that he has visited these troops multiple times.

Military Deployment and Its Purpose

Hegseth pointed out a widespread belief that mobilizing troops can harm military readiness. He countered this notion by suggesting that such actions actually enhance readiness levels.

"When you talk to them, it actually improves their readiness," Hegseth stated during the exchange.

Reed articulated concerns centered on the focus of military effectiveness during this operation. He questioned Hegseth about how deploying Marines alongside National Guardsmen could enhance military lethality.

"Readiness, training, and accountability contribute to lethality," Hegseth responded. He claimed that increased readiness translates to heightened military capability and that maintaining high standards correlates with improved effectiveness.

As the dialogue continued, Hegseth made clear that the mission in Los Angeles does not center on lethality but rather on upholding public order. He asserted that law enforcement agents deserve an environment where they can operate without facing mob violence.

"We take pride in having the National Guard and Marines on the streets to protect ICE agents, and that mission will continue," he assured the committee.

Current Roles of Deployed Marines

A Defense Department official clarified that the Marines currently stationed in Los Angeles comprise an infantry unit undergoing training. They are familiarizing themselves with nonlethal weapons and domestic use of force protocols at Seal Beach. As of Wednesday morning, these troops had not yet been assigned to street demonstrations.

Countering Hegseth’s statements, Reed claimed that law enforcement is primarily a civil responsibility as outlined in the Constitution. Hegseth responded, invoking historical precedents for military support of law enforcement activities.

"What your military is doing right now includes laying concertina wire, guarding buildings, and maintaining vehicles for other services," Reed asserted. He argued this focus might be detrimental to military preparedness.

Adding to the conflict, California Governor Gavin Newsom initiated a lawsuit against the Trump administration, contesting the federalization of the National Guard and the deployment of Marines. A federal judge, however, declined California’s request for an emergency restraining order against the military’s involvement, scheduling a hearing to further examine the legality of the situation.

Political Dynamics in Military Deployment

During the hearing, Hegseth suggested that Newsom’s actions are politically charged. Senator Brian Schatz from Hawaii inquired about the rationale behind the military presence and whether it indicated an invasion or rebellion occurring within the nation.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force General John D. Caine, deferred responses about border issues to the Department of Homeland Security. He acknowledged the challenges posed by public frustrations. Hegseth responded by referencing previous administrations, stating that the current one aims to regain control over immigration issues.

"When ICE officers are under attack, they have the right to perform their duties safely," he remarked, emphasizing the necessity of military support.

Schatz cautioned against generating sensational moments during the testimony, aiming to glean precise information about the scope of the military order.

"Did you mobilize every guard unit and service member? Clarifying the framework seems essential," he asked Hegseth.

Understanding the Mobilization Orders

Hegseth responded that an initial directive required 2,000 National Guard troops to be federalized. Subsequently, an additional 2,000 members were mobilized as the situation in California demanded a stronger response in support of law enforcement.

"Being proactive about potential issues is important in scenarios where unrest threatens public safety," Hegseth explained. He noted that in many states, governors independently decide to call upon National Guard units based on situational demands. Unfortunately for California, he asserted, the governor appears more concerned with political games than public safety.

This report included contributions from Fox News’ Liz Friden.