Low morale among Trump's National Guard troops is promising
MSNBCJUL 22
Pentagon Orders Marines to Leave Los Angeles
Above: U.S. Marines stand guard at the Edward R. Roybal Federal and Detention Center building in Los Angeles. Image copyright: Apu Gomes/Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
Despite objections of high-ranking Democrats, the military deployment successfully restored order to Los Angeles after violent protests threatened crucial infrastructure. Trump's decisive action sent a clear message that lawlessness would not be tolerated, a lesson leaders like Newsom and Bass should learn.
Democratic narrative
Trump's actions pulled troops from their families and civilian jobs to serve as political pawns in his immigration theater. While it's troubling that the mission left many demoralized — with some even seeking counseling — it also highlights a crucial turning point: the growing recognition that politicizing the military is unacceptable, and that such misuse can be challenged and ultimately reversed.