WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to the federalization and deployment of National Guard troops to Los Angeles County.  
 
“The federalization and deployment of the California National Guard over the objections of state and local officials in California risks dangerous escalation of the situation in Los Angeles County.
 
“Los Angeles Mayor Bass and California Governor Newsom have advised, as of this morning, that there is no unmet law enforcement need in the Los Angeles region. Sending in National Guard soldiers and raising the possibility of bringing in active-duty Marines runs the risk of inflaming a sensitive situation, not resolving it.  
 
“I urge the President to allow state and local authorities in California to handle this situation to avoid the risk of escalation and even the appearance of using the military as a police force.” 

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