Tensions between the Trump administration and California intensified this weekend as President Donald Trump decided to deploy 2,000 National Guard members to the Los Angeles area, a move the state’s Democratic leaders cast as an unnecessary escalation amid protests over the administration’s immigration policies.

The move appeared to be the first time in decades that a state’s national guard was activated without a request from its governor.

The California National Guard's 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, based in San Diego, said 300 personnel were deployed to protect federal property and personnel.