To deploy nearly 5,000 soldiers to Los Angeles to deal with ongoing protests, the Pentagon has to spend up to 134 million USD. This information was confirmed by Deputy Secretary of Defense for Finance Bryn MacDonnel during a hearing in the US House of Representatives.
The budget will be used to cover travel, accommodation, food and other arising expenses during the projected 60-day period of the campaign. MacDonnel said the figure was considered in the face of on-site conditions and urgent security needs.
The hearing comes as the House of Representatives has seen a fierce debate between Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and lawmakers, especially Congressman Pete Aguilar, a Democratic from California. Mr. Aguilar questioned the legality of the decision to transfer the army to Los Angeles, saying that this action lacked solid basis and could violate the limits of military separation from executive activities if the anti-riot law was not cited.
Secretary Hegseth defended the decision by emphasizing that President Donald Trump " Believes in law and order" and has "all authority" to order the deployment of troops. However, the military presence has caused controversy within the government and the states.
In recent days, the Pentagon has deployed 4,000 National Guard soldiers and 700 marines to Los Angeles to protect federal personnel and property. The move comes after a wave of protests against a mass deportation order issued by the Trump administration.
Democratic leaders in California and the locality condemned the decision to send troops, saying it would escalate tensions and require the withdrawal of armed forces from the city. Meanwhile, some experts and former defense officials believe the deployment is legal, but warn that the military could be placed in a difficult position amid political pressure and the task of protecting citizens.
protests continue in Los Angeles with about 70 people arrested over the weekend. California Governor Gavin Newsom has said he will increase more than 800 state and local police to ensure the safety of the people.
