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A cultural and political clash is playing out online between California Governor Gavin Newsom and President Donald Trump, highlighting tensions over federal authority, immigration enforcement, and national unity.
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As protests and riots erupted in Los Angeles following ICE raids, President Trump invoked federal law to deploy National Guard troops—without the governor’s request, a move not seen since 1965. Newsom opposed the action, filing a lawsuit and using social media memes, including one depicting Trump as Emperor Palpatine from Star Wars, to push back.
A ONCE GREAT AMERICAN CITY HAS BEEN OCCUPIED! pic.twitter.com/R3EnZNIk55
— Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) June 10, 2025
While humorous, given the already-tenuous relationship each of these leaders have with large swathes of the public, the post seems unprofessional and unbefitting a public servant.
The core of the conflict stems from Trump’s use of Title 10 to federalize the National Guard in Los Angeles after violent protests erupted over immigration raids. This marked the first such action without a governor’s consent since 1965. Trump claimed the city had been “invaded by Illegal Aliens and Criminals” and vowed to restore order.
Beneath the memes and media battles lies a deeper struggle over authority, immigration policy, and the heart of American governance. In faith, we must not be drawn into political rage or ridicule. Instead, we are called to intercede in prayer—for wisdom in our leaders, benevolent unity among authorities, and peace in our streets.
What do you think of the Newsom/Trump feud? Share your thoughts and prayers below.
Excerpts from Newsweek. Photo Credit: Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks, via Wikimedia Commons.