Trump’s LA militarization affects California’s National Guard counterdrug forces

President Trump's decision to redirect California National Guard forces to Los Angeles has resulted in a 32% reduction of the state's counterdrug personnel, affecting the fight against illegal drug flow into communities. This move has led to concerns about public safety and border control operations, particularly regarding fentanyl seizures.

Governor Gavin Newsom criticized President Trump's actions, stating that they undermine efforts to protect communities from illegal narcotics. Typically, under the Governor's command, nearly 450 servicemembers are deployed statewide for drug interdiction tasks. However, these redirected servicemembers now join approximately 4,000 others at Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos.

Since the start of their drug interdiction efforts in 2021, CalGuard has helped seize significant quantities of fentanyl and related pills with an estimated street value exceeding $450 million. So far this year, operations have resulted in the seizure of over 2,400 pounds of fentanyl and nearly 1.5 million pills valued at around $16 million.

Additionally, half of the service members dedicated to CalGuard's Youth and Community Programs Task Force have been affected by this redeployment. These programs focus on guiding at-risk youth and fostering community partnerships.

High-ranking U.S. military officials have expressed concern over President Trump's federalization orders through amicus briefs outlining potential risks. Reports indicate that less than 20% of federalized servicemembers are currently utilized.

The capacity for wildfire response has also been impacted; CalGuard's firefighting crews are operating at only 40% capacity due to eight out of fourteen teams being diverted as part of President Trump’s strategy.

In recent years, Governor Newsom has bolstered efforts against fentanyl trafficking by increasing personnel involved in counterdrug operations at ports of entry across California. These initiatives receive funding from a $60 million investment aimed at preventing drug trafficking by transnational criminal organizations.