As protests in Los Angeles boiled over into chaos this week, one moment caught live on air is now going viral: a foreign journalist hit by a rubber bullet during a live broadcast. But as critics point fingers, President Donald Trump is standing firm. He’s taking decisive steps to restore law and order in the face of growing unrest.
Australian correspondent Lauren Tomasi of 9News was on the ground covering a clash between demonstrators and law enforcement when she was hit by a rubber bullet. The footage, uploaded to X, shows Tomasi reacting in pain and limping away, while her cameraman shouted at police: “You just shot the f—ing reporter!”
While the incident has sparked conversation online, many are turning their focus toward the broader breakdown in public safety. And the urgent need for federal intervention.
Chaos on the Streets
The protest in question targeted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and were part of a wave of recent demonstrations against President Trump’s efforts to enforce immigration laws and secure the nation’s borders.
As tensions mounted, Tomasi was seen reporting from near the front lines — a visibly volatile area as protesters and law enforcement clashed in close quarters. Some questioned police conduct, but others pointed out the risks of reporting from active zones.
One user posted, “She’s in the freaking street… She doesn’t get extra privileges. Sorry.”
Trump’s Federal Response
As violence erupted across several cities, President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles, with 500 Marines on standby. The move drew praise from supporters who saw it as a necessary show of strength in the face of mounting instability.
While California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the federal response, accusing Trump of “hoping for chaos,” others pushed back. They argued that local leaders had allowed lawlessness to flourish and failed to protect citizens.
A Nation Divided — and a Leader Taking Action
The debate over how to balance protest rights, public safety, and press freedom is ongoing. Supporters of the administration argue that Trump acted in accordance with his constitutional duty to preserve order, especially when local governments appear overwhelmed.
Tensions Still High
The aftermath of the protest — including the shooting of Tomasi — has sparked calls for review and accountability. While reactions remain mixed, law enforcement sources maintain they were operating in a high-risk environment where rapid decisions had to be made.
As comparisons to past protest waves and even “civil war” imagery circulate online, the administration continues to project stability, with President Trump reaffirming his role as a law-and-order leader during uncertain times.
