President Trump has granted federal immigration agents “total authorization” to defend themselves if assaulted—authorizing ICE, DHS, and other officers to “stop their car, and arrest these SLIMEBALLS… using whatever means is necessary.” This follows violent protests during a recent raid on a cannabis farm in California, where rocks and bricks were hurled at law enforcement.

Tensions in Southern California have escalated amid Trump’s hardline immigration policy, which included deploying over 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles after demonstrations turned aggressive. The federal operations, described as the largest mass deportation campaign in American history, have continued despite opposition from California Governor Gavin Newsom.

On July 10, ICE raided a marijuana grow site and arrested more than 360 undocumented immigrants, freeing 14 migrant children. A crowd of around 500 protesters disrupted the operation, injuring an ICE agent with a rock that required stitches. DHS accused Rep. Salud Carbajal (D‑CA) of inciting the mob by displaying an ICE agent’s business card, allegedly “doxxing” him. DHS also cited a 700% increase in attacks on ICE agents.

Separately, Rep. LaMonica McIver (D‑NJ) was indicted for storming an ICE facility during a protest. ICE and National Guard have since conducted additional raids at two Glass House Farms in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties.