
Curfew takes effect in downtown Los Angeles amid protests against ICE raids
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The bottom line is, even as the Trump administration tries to end abortion access funding and shut down health centers, Planned Parenthood continues its vital work without flinching. The assault on reproductive health is strategic and persistent. And who gets hurt the most? Women? People of color, Rural communities, folks with low incomes, the people who already face the biggest barriers to care. If you believe everyone deserves to control their own body and future, donate now@plannedparenthood.org defend.
Gavin Newsom
This brazen abuse of power by a sitting president inflamed a combustible situation, putting our people, our officers, and even our National Guard at risk. Many of you have seen the video clips of cars burning on cable news. If you incite violence, I want to be clear about this. If you incite violence or destroy our communities, you're going to be held to account. But we do not want our streets militarized by our own armed forces. Not in la, not in California, not anywhere. Trump is pulling a military dragnet all across Los Angeles, well beyond his stated intent to just go after violent and serious criminals. His agents are arresting dishwashers, gardeners, day laborers and seamstresses. That's just weakness. Weakness masquerading as strength. Donald Trump's government isn't protecting our communities, they're traumatizing our communities. And that seems to be the entire point. If some of us could be snatched off the streets without a warrant based only on suspicion or skin color, then none of us are safe.
Morning Joe Host
All right. California Governor Gavin Newsom delivering an address last night responding to President Trump sending military forces into Los Angeles. The governor took a defiant tone, calling on Americans to to stand up to the president. It came hours after Trump defended his decision to deploy service members while giving a rally style speech at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. We'll go through all of that and what it means in just a moment. Also ahead, we'll have an update on trade talks between the Trump administration and Chinese officials in London. Plus, we'll bring you the latest from Eastern Europe as Russia continues to escalate its attacks on Ukraine, launching yet another deadly strike overnight. And we'll be joined by Democratic Congresswoman Mikey Sherrill of New Jersey, who will be the state's Democratic candidate for governor this fall. Good morning and welcome to Morning Joe. It's Wednesday, June 11th. Along with Willie and me, we have co host of our fourth hour contributing writer at the Atlantic, Jonathan Lemire, US Special correspondent for BBC News and the host of the Rest Is Politics podcast, Katie Kay. MSNBC contributor Mike Barnacle is with us. And former Republican con Congressman Carlos Curbelo of Florida, he's an MSNBC analyst. And, Willie, we begin once again out west where tensions are running high and a couple of narratives are playing out here at the same time.
Karen Bass
Yeah, and a curfew is now in place in downtown Los Angeles after those clashes between protesters and law enforcement. Mayor Karen Bass ordered the curfew last night, saying it will, quote, stop bad actors who are taking advantage of of the president's chaotic escalation. Mayor Bass says she expects the curfew to be in place for several days. There have been hundreds of arrests since Friday. It all comes as the Trump administration has activated 700 Marines and 4,000 members of the National Guard there in LA. The troops have been helping federal immigration agents carry out raids across the country, a move that is expected to cost about $134 million for 60 days of operations. California has filed a lawsuit seeking to block the Trump admin from activating those troops. A federal judge is set to hear that case tomorrow. Meanwhile, Governor Newsom slammed President Trump in a formal address last night, as we heard a minute ago, criticizing the president for federalizing the National Guard and deploying Marines to LA and accusing him of fanning the flames of the protests. Newsom also described Trump's actions as an assault on democracy while issuing a warning to other states.
Gavin Newsom
Donald Trump, without consulting California law enforcement leaders, commandeered 2,000 of our state's National Guard members to deploy on our streets illegally and for no reason. This brazen abuse of power by a sitting president inflamed a combustible situation, putting our people, our officers, and even our National Guard at risk. That's when the downward spiral began. He doubled down on his dangerous National Guard deployment by fanning the flames even harder. And the President, he did it on purpose. This isn't just about protests here in Los Angeles. When Donald Trump sought blanket authority to commandeer the National Guard, he made that order apply to every state in this nation. This is about all of us. This is about you. California may be first, but it clearly will not end here. Other states are next. Democracy is next. Democracy is under assault before our eyes. This moment we have feared has arrived.
Karen Bass
Joining us now from Los Angeles is NBC News correspondent Camilla Bernal. Camille, good morning. We spoke at this time yesterday. Things had calmed a bit. What was the situation overnight, particularly with this curfew of a certain area, relatively small area of Los Angeles put into effect?
Camilla Bernal
Hey, Willie. Yeah. Things calm because that curfew is still in effect for another three hours or so here in Los Angeles. But we did see a number of arrests after that curfew went into effect at 8pm local time last night. A huge law enforcement presence essentially getting everyone off the streets last night. And like you mentioned, Karen Bass really pointing out that L. A is about 500 square miles, and you're only getting that curfew in about one square mile of this city. So that should give you some perspective, perspective as to how large these protests are in comparison to all of Los Angeles. There's been a large law enforcement presence, not just last night during the curfew, but really throughout the entire day in the last couple of days, largely made up of state officials and the local police department here. And they have been pushing protesters out of the way, essentially when they go into the 101 freeway, for example. And we are getting an updated number of those arrests. They started out Saturday with just 27 arrests, arrests. Then on Sunday, 40 arrests. Then on Monday, 114. And then yesterday, before that curfew went into effect, they had arrested 197 people. So you're seeing those numbers increasing. We're expecting more because of that curfew, but officials saying you're not going to be able to go on the 101 highway. You're not going to be able to vandalize and create problem within the city of Los Angeles. Officials saying they're going to continue to look at tape and prosecute people, hold people accountable. If they are putting that graffiti all over the streets of la, that's one of the biggest problems that authorities want to get a handle of. And it's why, in part, why they put this curfew in place. They're also telling protesters that if you're vandalizing and looting, you're not standing up for migrants. Those were the words of Karen Bass. And then, of course, there's this political fallout and this political fight between Karen Bass and Gavin Newsom against the president. And the two leaders here in California saying that the President has escalated this, put fuel to this fire. And they say there are two simple reasons as to why this has escalated. One being the raids and the immigration agents going into local businesses, going into schools. For example, the governor saying there were unmarked vehicles at a school and saying that children are afraid to go to their own graduation. And then the other aspect is, of course, the National Guard, the Marines, people on the ground here not wanting to see that and that creating escalations and tensions here in Los Angeles. But I do want to point out that the day yesterday ended very peacefully. There was a vigil taking place with interfaith leaders and a lot of people just wanting this to be about the migrants, this to be about the central issue and not about the violence and what you're seeing when things escalate between protesters and police officers.
Karen Bass
WILLIE Camilla, depending on where you get your information, you're getting two very different stories of what's happening in the streets of Los Angeles right now. Mayor Bass, Governor Newsom saying they're mostly peaceful. There are some bad actors who, yes, are committing violence and damage and they should be arrested and prosecuted. Everyone agrees on that, I think. But then if you watch other channels, it's chaos in the streets. And if you listen to the president of the United States, it's chaos on the streets, him seizing on a couple of clips played on a loop that he's been talking about. So you're there, you're covering these protests. You've got sources on the ground. What is the truth? What do these protests actually look like?
Camilla Bernal
Yeah, there is some aspect of chaos, but it's relatively small in comparison to Los Angeles. And in comparison to the protesters, you're seeing so many members of law enforcement almost in comparison to these protesters. So once these ones that want to escalate things and want to create trouble start doing so, that's when you, of course, have the cameras ready and present and capture a lot of these images that essentially get blown up and get there's this narrative of l A is on fire and it's not that is not the case. It's a very small area. Things were getting a lot more calm and a lot more peaceful yesterday. But what Mayor Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom are saying is, yes, things are getting more peaceful, but then you start talking again about the National Guard and the Marines, and then people get angry and upset. But again, usually it is a smaller group of people in comparison to the people that are protesting peacefully and that want to get their message across.
Karen Bass
Willie NBC's Camilla Bernal reporting for us from Los Angeles again this morning. Camila, thanks so much. MIKA yeah.
Morning Joe Host
So, Jonathan LeMere, you have a new piece reporting in the Atlantic, and it's a piece you co wrote. It's entitled the White House Is Delighted with Events in Los Angeles. You write in part this. Indeed, officials at the White House told us they are satisfied with the way the LA confrontation has unfolded. They believe that it highlights their focus on immigration and law and order and places Democrats on the wrong side of both. One widely circulated photo showing a masked protester standing in front of a burning car waving a Mexican flag has been embraced by Trump supporters as a distillation of the conflict. A president unafraid to use force to defend an American city from those he deems foreign invaders. We couldn't have scripted this better, said a senior White House aide granted anonymity to discuss internal conversations. It's like the 2024 elections never ended. Trump is strong while Democrats are weak and defending the indefensible. A lot of concern that Democrats are being played here in a big way, even the media to an extent. What more can you tell us about your reporting?
Jonathan Lemire
Jonathan samely, the White House, as you just read, very pleased with how this is going so far. They think these are some of the president's strongest issues and that he looks like a commander in chief in charge situation. Democrats in 2024 certainly recognized and throughout much of the Biden years that immigration was a vulnerability for them. I will say though, that Democrats in the last day or two have been happy to stop talking about immigration as much and more about the president's use of the National Guard. They feel like that's much safer political terrain for them, that a lot of Americans are upset with the idea of the military, the Marines, even on the streets, an American city. And certainly there are some Republicans. The piece also notes that we've spoken to who worry the president might be on the on the verge of overreaching here, playing too much with the military. You know, he is certainly in 2020 was talked out of deploying the federal, the National Guard as much as he would have wanted. They did some, but not as much as he would have liked. He, of course, as we have talked about Yesterday, even in 2020, wanted to asked his military leaders if it would be okay to shoot protesters in the legs. He was told absolutely not. You can't do that this time around. I mean, he certainly hasn't invoked the Insurrection act yet. But we heard from him again yesterday saying he's thinking about it. He seems more willing to take that extra step. And certainly he's surrounded by much more of a yes men this time around. So yeah, Mika, you know, a few White House aides I talked to, look, they like this show of force. They don't want there to be violence. The aide said they recognize if there is a full fledged clash between the military and protesters, that's not good for anyone. Obviously it also would create more scenes of chaos and they think that would turn off Americans across the country. But Willie, but right now they like this idea that the president looks like he's a man of Action. They, of course, are very critical of how the California governor and the Los Angeles mayor have handled this. This pushback, of course, from the other side. But they feel like this plays right into the strengths. A strong leader and gets to talk about immigration.
Karen Bass
And they have to create this scene of chaos with the help of some images from their friends in the media to justify to what they're doing. So, Carlos Curbelo, let's talk about the way that the governor, the mayor of Los Angeles have handled this. They have said again and again over the last several days, if you commit violence, you will be arrested, you will be punished. We will track you down and find you. Yes. That said, they believe the Los Angeles Police Department is more than equipped to handle demonstrations of this size and to make the arrests they've been making without the help of 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 United States Marines.
Carlos Curbelo
Yeah, Willie, I think this is really Gavin Newsom's moment, right? And I think he has handled it with sobriety. I think he's trying to control the narrative. It's very difficult when you're competing with some of the images that keep getting replayed on the news. And a lot of this is newsworthy. I mean, when people are assaulting federal government agents, that is a big deal, and that should be covered, and every network has covered it. Now, of course, there are some exaggerations in terms of how widespread this is, how violent it is, and that's what Gavin Newsom and Karen Bass are having to contend with. But I really do think what Newsom is trying to do here is to win the middle of the country. And I think it makes a lot of sense to de. Emphasize the immigration issue. Immigration is still not a good issue for Democrats. The majority of the American people don't trust the Democratic Party on the immigration issue. So to shift to the excessive use of force does make a lot of sense to me.
Morning Joe Host
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified yesterday before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. Lawmakers wasted no time pressing the secretary about the deployment of troops to la. Secretary Hegseth defended the move and suggested the use of of the National Guard for homeland defense would expand under President Trump.
Carlos Curbelo
The governor of California is unable to execute the laws of the United States. The president. You said all the governor of the California has failed to protect his people, along with the mayor of Los Angeles. And so President Trump has said he will protect our agents and our Guard and Marines are proud to do, says Mr. Secretary, that the orders for these purposes shall be issued through governors of the states. You And I both know that President Trump has all the authorities necessary, and thankfully he's willing to do it on behalf of the citizens of Los Angeles, on behalf of our ICE agents and behalf of our country.
Morning Joe Host
Secretary Hegseth also responded to reports the National Guard members were not prepared for the activation following a San Francisco Chronicle feature detailing how some members have been left without adequate sleeping arrangements.
Karen Bass
There have been photographs that have shown these troops sleeping on the floor and.
Carlos Curbelo
Have not been provided fuel, food or water by dod.
Planned Parenthood Representative
How long will this deployment last and.
Karen Bass
Why were we unprepared to provide them.
Carlos Curbelo
Basic necessities such as food and water? The commanders and troops on the field are very well prepared, sir. They responded incredibly rapidly to a deteriorating situation with equipment and capabilities.
Morning Joe Host
So you have these comments. Mike Barnicle, President Trump also had an address at Fort Bragg yesterday. What do you make of so far these deployments and what they might prognosticate for the future?
Mike Barnicle
You know, Mika, this is literally a tale of two cities. It is the tale of one city being told by the administration by sending the National Guard and the United States Marine Corps, combat ready Marine Corps, onto the streets of an American city. Then there's the other tale of another city, Los Angeles itself. And when told by the mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, and the governor of California, Gavin Newsom, you realize the facts of the tale of the two cities and the facts are that Los Angeles is calming down, that there are no riots in the streets, that the activities of the protesters confined to about four or five square blocks in a city, a tumultuous, large, sprawling city in America, four or five blocks. That's it. And Katie K. The tale of two cities is being told by the media. It's amaz. We know this, we're in this business. But the impact of pictures that people see on their TV tell a story that's not really accurate. I mean, the flames, the cars being burned, the police being thrown, you know, concrete blocks at the police, that's been taken care of by the Los Angeles Police Department. They have restored order on their streets. And yet it's hard to understand the other tale being told by the administration.
Katie Kay
Yeah, I mean, you're right. I spoke yesterday to a couple of political strategists, one Democrat, one Republican, both from California, and both of them agreed that in the context of California history, these protests have frankly been pretty minor. They're contained to downtown. They haven't really spread. One of them said that in Sacramento, by the end of the day, it was just like a picnic. So I think there is the reality that the protests aren't particularly big, but there is also the White House's message, as you're suggesting and as Jonathan was saying earlier, that works very well for the administration. And all of that leaves Democrats in this tricky position. You know, how do they get the message out? Do they just try and hope that if this calms down, it looks like having the military out on the streets is overkill by the administration? But if the protests continue either in Los Angeles or in other Democratic run cities around the country, does the White House is the White House able to claim credit for having calmed down a situation, even if that situation was not particularly aggressive in the first place? And I think that's why it's hard for somebody like Gavin Newsom, who has his own political future in the Democratic primaries to think of for the presidential run, to figure out exactly how to handle this and exactly where to stress where they're going to do their messaging.
Morning Joe Host
All right, straight ahead, we're going to get to some must read opinion pages on this. Also in our 9 o' clock hour of Morning Joe, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass will be our guest. Also ahead, Elon Musk says he now regrets the comments he made about President Trump. We'll dig into that and how the relationship between the two has definitely changed. Plus, we'll get the latest on the war in Ukraine as both sides carry out a prisoner swap and the European Union looks to impose more sanctions on Russia. And a reminder, the Morning Joe podcast available each weekday featuring our full conversations and analysis. You can listen wherever you get your podcasts here watching Morning Joe. We're back in 90 seconds.
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Karen Bass
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Carlos Curbelo
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Karen Bass
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Himself right as the master negotiator, which.
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He seems to see himself as a deals person.
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Morning Joe Host
22 past the hour. Time now for a look at some of the stories making headlines this morning. Elon Musk says he now regrets some of the social media messages that he posted during last week's public feud with President Trump. Musk did not specify which ones that he regretted writing, but did acknowledge they, quote, went too far. President Trump has said he has no interest in repairing the relationship with his former advisor, Carlos Curbelo. Some of them were about the big, the president's words, big, beautiful bill. He was extremely critical. Does it have any impact?
Carlos Curbelo
I don't think so. I think a lot of congressional Republicans have kind of dismissed this as Elon Musk getting emotional, getting a little too heated about his breakup with the White House. And frankly, I don't think anyone at the White House wants him back. Elon Musk want a very good political ally for this president. Did create a lot of chaos in the White House, did overstep his authority, get into other people's turf. Everyone remembers that Cabinet meeting where Marco Rubio and Sean Duffy pushed back in front of everyone and president took their side. So I just think even though Elon may want to make peace, everyone's kind of happy to see these two go their separate ways.
Planned Parenthood Representative
Yeah.
Morning Joe Host
All right, moving on with the headlines. South Korea has stopped broadcasting anti North Korean propaganda along the border between the two countries. It comes as the new government in Seoul takes concrete steps to ease tensions with its rival. The loudspeakers had been playing South Korean music in an attempt to undercut efforts by North Korea to stamp out the influence of pop culture and language amongst the population there. And Michael Bloomberg is endorsing former Governor Andrew Cuomo for mayor of New York City. Bloomberg held the mayor's job for three terms. In a statement, Bloomberg writes in part, the question before New Yorkers is not who is the perfect choice? No mayor is perfect. The question is who is the best choice? To me, that choice is clear. Andrew Cuomo. Cuomo is currently leading the primary field. Election day is Tuesday, June 24th. Willie, that's quite an endorsement.
Karen Bass
It is. It's an important endorsement. A three term mayor of New York City. Jonathan Michael Bloomberg putting and interesting to see his statement in the endorsement. He goes, look, he's not perfect, sort of acknowledging some of the flaws that a lot of New Yorkers see in the front runner in this race.
Jonathan Lemire
Yeah, in some ways captured the mood of the city about this race, where it feels like every candidate, there are some real misgivings about it. And you know, Governor Cuomo, he is running on what he says is a strong managerial run, but we know his time in office ended with scandal. And of course, he received a lot of criticism for how he handled some of the parts of the COVID pandemic. And it is a tightening race. We have seen Zorat Mandani really make some inroads here. He seems to be the leader, Mike, of the non Cuomo division, although we certainly could hear from him. We had the City Council Speaker Adams, Adrian Adams, here yesterday.
Mike Barnicle
She was impressive.
Jonathan Lemire
Brad Lander and other candidates still very much in the mix. Also, because it's ranked choice voting, it's hard to know what to make of this. And we also truthfully haven't had a public poll in a while to really give us a snapshot of the race.
Mike Barnicle
Yeah, the ranked choice voting is interesting. I haven't seen the ballot. Has anybody seen the ballot? I don't know what the ballot looks like. I don't know how you do ranked choice voting. But the Bloomberg endorsement is huge because I think a lot of people in New York, New York City residents, no matter what borough you live in, you realize that the city, it's made a difference. When Bloomberg was mayor, just administratively, things went better in the city when he was mayor because he's an administrator, he knows how to run things. And if you look around the playgrounds in this city over in Brooklyn, your neighborhood, the playgrounds that were built, the things that were made accessible to more citizens of the city during the Bloomberg administration, I think that's going to have an impact, a big impact on the race. His endorsement of ambassadors.
Karen Bass
Next door in New Jersey, the race for governor is now set. Democratic Congresswoman Mikey Sherrill and Republican Jack Cittarelli have won their party's primaries in the Garden State. That's according to NBC News projections. Their victories set the stage for what will be one of the most closely watched races of the year. We are in an American crisis, but not in a war for independence, in.
Morning Joe Host
A fight for our future, the fight.
Karen Bass
For justice, for liberty, for opportunity and for prosperity. And once again, it is New Jersey's responsibility to lead this great nation.
Mike Barnicle
Tonight, we took the next step in.
Carlos Curbelo
Achieving our mission with a clear and convincing primary victory. Tonight, because of you, we won all.
Mike Barnicle
21 New Jersey counties.
Karen Bass
Ciatarelli, who has the support of President Trump, defeated four other Republicans very comfortably in the race. Cheryl beat five Democrats. She also won by double digits. New Jersey, one of two states with governor's races this year, with the contest likely to be an early sign of how voters are responding to President Trump's second turn. And we will speak to Congresswoman Cheryl about her primary win when she joins us in our next hour. Carlos, this is a fascinating race because there are, as I said, so few governors races this year, but also because of what it sets up, which is a Trump backed Republican in a blue state that got a little less blue in the last presidential election and a moderate Democrat, a very impressive Democrat in Mikey Sherrill with military experience, experience as a prosecutor and now hoping to be the governor.
Carlos Curbelo
Yeah, that's right, Willie. I think Democrats in nominating Mikey Sherrill really have set themselves up to avoid the type of surprise loss that almost happened there in the last election after President Biden had won the presidency. Right. That was a close call for Democrats. And then President Trump came a lot closer to winning the state than they would have liked last time. So Mikey Sherrill, a centrist candidate, not just in her policies but also in the way she carries herself and her demeanor. It seems to me that that's the best type of candidate for Democrats going into this fall.
Morning Joe Host
All right, former Republican Congressman Carlos Curbelo, thank you very much for your analysis and insight this morning. And coming up on MORNING Joe, we'll take a closer look at the framework trade deal the US And China have agreed to and the impact it could have on American businesses and consumers. MORNING joe. We'll be right back.
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Morning Joe Host
33 past the hour. Ukraine and Russia have carried out a prisoner swap. It involved an unspecified number of sick and wounded troops and happened just hours after Russia targeted Ukrainian cities with missile and drone strikes. Joining us now from Kyiv is NBC News chief foreign correspondent Richard Engel. Richard, what more are we learning at this point?
Planned Parenthood Representative
Good morning. There were more Russian attacks overnight against Ukrainian cities, more civilian casualties, according to local officials. There is still no ceasefire here, but after this latest exchange of prisoners, there is renewed hope that there will be more prisoner swaps. Dozens of Ukrainian prisoners of war were freed in an exchange with Russia. They were greeted to a hero's welcome at a hospital north of Kyiv. But they looked like the living dead, gauntlet heads shaven, their bodies broken and, some said, beaten. Oleksandr Kulkov told me he was a prisoner for over three years and that the Russians broke his ribs. If nothing was already broken, they would break it, he said. Hundreds of families of missing Ukrainians tried to show the POW's photographs, hoping one of them might have seen their lost father, son or brother. Olga Serhichuk had no luck. I am happy for those who have been returned, but I am so sorry my husband is not among them, she said. But just a few feet away, Tanya Shestak couldn't contain her joy. A prisoner saw her father days ago and said he's doing well. This is the first information, first time you learn that your father is still alright. How are you doing?
Mike Barnicle
Oh, very exciting.
Planned Parenthood Representative
I can feel you squeezing my arm. Wow. A Russian official this morning said that Russia has handed over the bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers and Ukraine has confirmed that it received the remains of more than 1,000 of its troops.
Katie Kay
Richard. Meanwhile, President Zelensky, of course, has said that this is just the beginning of what could be a very complicated and sensitive process beyond the prisoner exchange. What are people in Kyiv, officials in Kyiv telling you about the American position at the moment? Because the understanding in Washington seems to be that President Trump is just really distancing himself from this process.
Planned Parenthood Representative
So Ukrainians haven't washed their hands completely of the American negotiations, the American military mediating role. There's frustration here. There's no longer confidence among most Ukrainians, among Ukrainian officials, although they don't like to say it publicly in the American role. Most people here don't believe that President Trump is a fair and balanced player here, that he has Ukraine's interests in mind. But the Ukrainians are still dependent on American support, and so they are still engaged in this process, process. And a Russian official just this morning said that a new round of negotiations is expected to take place quite soon in Moscow. So in the background, these negotiations are still ongoing. But, Katie, I must say that, that the average Ukrainian has very little confidence that President Trump is on this countryside.
Karen Bass
NBC News chief foreign correspondent Richard Engle live this morning from Kiev. Richard, thanks so much. United States, States and Chinese negotiators have agreed on a framework, at least to get Trade negotiations back on track. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick says the deal should result in restrictions on rare earth minerals and magnets being resolved. Both sides will now take their plan to President Trump and President Xi for approval. Meanwhile, a federal appeals court has allowed President Trump's tariffs to remain in effect while it reviews a lower court decision that said the president exceeded his authority in imposing those tariffs. Let's bring in the anchor of CNBC's Worldwide Exchange, Frank Holland. Frank, good morning. So let's go back to China and the United States. That framework of a deal. Is there some hope, at least on Wall street that this may result in an actual deal more than a framework?
J
You know what I mean? Hope springs eternal, of course, really, as you know, and good morning to you and everybody back there. But we are seeing a bit of a muted start to lower start on Wall street as many investors, they may have already priced in some type of improvement in US China relations. Of course, we did see what most people would consider progress with the quote, unquote handshake related to export controls on US Tech to China and rare earth exports to the US From China. We also got some level setting from China. And this is important, their vice premier and lead negotiator in these talks saying in part China's not looking to fight, but willing to fight if needed. Also saying that China is sincere in these negotiations, but but it also has principles. So I think a lot of people are going to spend some time kind of reading between the lines of those comments. Of course, as you mentioned, a final deal depends on President Trump and President Xi. So technically there still is some ways to go here. And also as you mentioned, there's some other developments that could impact the US Markets. Reportedly the US And Mexico, they're getting closer to a deal on tariffs. Europe also telling the US the July 9 deadline to reach some type of trade and tariff deal. In their mind, that's just a best case scenario. It's just a best case scenario, not necessarily a deadline or a hard date that it has to happen. And then as you also mentioned, the so called retaliatory tariffs or Liberation Day tariffs, those are still in place. So yesterday I spoke with a former US Diplomat and even they admitted they're having a hard time keeping track of all these different trade and tariff developments. They also said, and this is important when it comes to China, they expect China to remain strategic with the US when it comes to rare earth exports to really set the tone when it comes to negotiations and conversations going forward, either pulling back those exports or allowing them as needed, to send a message or to show that they're in favor of some of the moves that the US Is making. And just for edification, I know you guys have probably talked about it, rare earths are used in almost everything from cars to laptops to mobile phones. They also help create magnets for cars which are very much needed. And while they're relatively plentiful around the world, China at this Moment manufactures about 90% of them because many other countries, including the U.S. they block production or make the process very difficult due to environmental concerns. Concerns also today, and this seems like, like a secondhand kind of thing, we have the CPI inflation report. Inflation is forecasted to tick up very slightly. I spoke with the chief investment officer of a Wall street firm who says they're watching this to see if this is possibly the start of inflation reaccelerating due to tariffs or if it's just an outlier. So a lot of questions today.
Karen Bass
You anticipated my next question. Very good, Frank. You know, the, the general concern about these tariffs for a lot of people, among many, it was that they were going to jack up prices down the road in here in the United States are going to cost consumers. They were tax on consumers. We'll learn more when that report comes out today, the consumer Price Index report, a little bit later this morning. But so far have we seen the kind of inflation that people were worried about and is that concern still out there that yes, eventually downstream, that these tariffs could lead to high prices for people out buying groceries?
J
Well, we've seen it, but not necessarily in the hard data. CPI and PC, those really the hard data that we look at. But we've seen it in different surveys where, where we hear in the manufacturing sector that prices are going up, input costs are going up, which generally is passed on to consumers. In fact, we had one of the biggest aluminum producers in the world on my show earlier today and they said the price of aluminum is going up due to these aluminum and steel tariffs and they're going to pass it along to customers. They're not looking to absorb any of it or very little of it. And then we heard from other companies, like a company a lot of people know, but you don't know by name. Train, they create the, they build the American standard air conditioning units and other things like that. They're kind of strategic. They're passing on some of the costs when they can, they're absorbing it when they can. So if you're going to go buy an air conditioner, maybe it'll be a higher price due to those tariffs. So it just depends on the industry and the company how they're just trying to tackle the situation when it comes to tariffs. But certainly today's, today's CPI report is going to be closely watched to see what areas we're seeing inflation, will it be in areas like shelter where you're not necessarily seeing the impact will be other areas like hard goods.
Karen Bass
All right, CNBC's Frank Collins, really, I'm.
J
Going to anticipate your other question really quick. Pacers and six.
Karen Bass
Pacers and six. Pacers and six. Yeah. Wow. I wouldn't count them out. As a Knicks fan, I see what they are capable of, especially after they steal a game one where they were trailing by 15 points in the first quarter. A familiar story. So not counting them out. That next game is tonight in Indiana. All right, Frank, thanks so much. Still ahead, we'll go through President Trump's rally style speech yesterday at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. He had those active duty troops booing the media, booing his political opponents. Also, we'll be joined by New York City Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch as her department responds to protests in this city now over ice operations and what she's learning from what's happening in Los Angeles. Morning. Jo's coming right back.
J
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Carlos Curbelo
Have missed here for Cameron Judge.
Jonathan Lemire
Hits it high and deep and forget about it.
Karen Bass
Aaron Judge pounding the gavel for a two run Blast to the top of the first. You know it's a big one when the cameraman cannot locate the ball. That's the 24th home run of the year for Yankee captain Aaron Judge. His longest of the season. 469. The left field of the opening frame in Kansas City setting the tone for the Yankees win on the road against Kansas City. Austin Wells drove in five runs including three on this home run pad New York's lead in the fourth. Yankees beat the Royals 10 to 2 in Boston. After a rough debut on Monday. Prize Red Sox prospect Roman Anthony feel a little more at home at Fenway last night. The 21 year old outfielder lining a two run double to left in the first inning. That is his first big league hit. First of many, which helped propel the Red Sox to a 31 win over the Rays. Anthony now the youngest player in franchise history to record three or more RBIs in his first two major league games. We like what we see. Yes, this is the future, right guys?
Mike Barnicle
For his age, just 21, amazing patience at the plate and an amazing knowledge of the strike zone. I mean some of the pitches he lets go, you say oh no, you got to hit that, you know. But no, he hangs in there really, really a mature player.
Jonathan Lemire
And this team look has underachieved to this point in the season. They're not out of it. There's a long way to go. All that. That said, no matter what happens this year, the fact that there's the building blocks here. Three young stud prospects have all made the leap to the majors this year. Anthony, Meyer and Campbell. There's a lot of excitement for Red Sox. Even if this year doesn't go the way we want and we can't catch the, you know, the juggernaut Yankees, there's hope for the future.
Karen Bass
Yeah, I mean he could also sometimes we've seen it before. The way that guy carries himself when he walks out onto the field. He's a major league confidence, not arrogance, just a confidence.
Mike Barnicle
Exactly right.
Karen Bass
Big league ballplayer. Mandatory minicamps in the NFL are underway In Pittsburgh yesterday, 41 year old quarterback Aaron Rodgers kicked off his 21st season at the Steelers practice facility. Spoke to reporters about his decision to sign a one year contract with the team. I think it starts with Mike Tomlin. I've been a fan of his for a long time.
J
There's a few iconic franchises in the NFL.
Karen Bass
I played for one of them for 18 years. This is another one, one of those. I don't need it for my ego. I don't need it to keep playing.
J
A lot of decisions that I've made.
Karen Bass
Over my career, career and life from strictly the ego, even if they turn out well, are always unfulfilling. But the decisions made from the soul.
J
Are usually pretty fulfilling. So this was a decision that was.
Karen Bass
Best for my soul and I felt like being here with Coach T and the guys. They got here and the opportunity here.
J
Was the best for me and I'm excited to be here.
Karen Bass
And John, huge intrigue, as we were just saying. The Steelers begin their season on the road against the jets.
Jonathan Lemire
And as Aaron Rodgers was talking about the legendary franchise he played before, he was not referring to the jets, he was clearly talking about the packers there. Yeah, this is a move that's been met with mixed feelings, shall we say? Rodgers a lot of off the field baggage he's developed in recent years. He's also his plays really slipped. So we'll see if he's still what he has next year. But if you are the Steelers, you're win now mode. You play in a very tough division. They didn't have any alternatives. It's worth rolling the dice on Aaron Rodgers and his ayahuasca caves.
Mike Barnicle
He's 41 years of age, but he's not Tom Brady.
Jonathan Lemire
He's not. And I do think that Brady sort of redefined expectations for what older quarterbacks can do but most quarterbacks cannot do. Brady's been the exception, usually at 41. These guys are about done. Brady's the one guy who kept going.
Karen Bass
As you say, the Steelers didn't really have a quarterback. So take a chance on Aaron Rodgers. Why not? We'll see The NBA Finals resume tonight in Indianapolis. The Pacers set to host the Oklahoma City Thunder in game three. The championship series is tied at one game a piece. Ratings not great for this, but two really good teams. Fun to watch. Halliburton. Fun to watch. Obviously SGA is fun to watch too. Stealing that first game in in Oklahoma City for the Pacers. Massive. Now they get a chance to get the upper hand at home.
Jonathan Lemire
Yeah, the nation not exactly abuzz over this series but these are two really good teams and we should get used to seeing Oklahoma City Thunder on the they have the makings of what could have a real run here. Even young dynasty esque only going to get better in the years ahead. And I think the scene in Indiana tonight is going to be amazing basketball sort of the heartbeat of basketball there in that state. And yeah, I think if we heard Frank say Pacers in six. Yeah, I'm going to go the other way. I think the Thunder win it. But this is going to be a long series, which I didn't expect initially. I thought it was going to be Thunder quick. I now think we're going to get a long one.
Mike Barnicle
You know, there are some tremendous athletes on both of these teams. Really extraordinary athletes. If they were playing in my driveway, I would not be out there watching.
Karen Bass
Oh, come on.
Mike Barnicle
I'd be watching a baseball.
Karen Bass
They're great.
Mike Barnicle
It's the third week in June. They've got to end these playoff series early. Hockey is just going to game four. I know in their NH in the NHL, they've got to end these seasons earlier.
Karen Bass
They also have these long stretches between the games. You kind of tune out between the games and forget about it.
Jonathan Lemire
Which I guess is for TV purposes.
Karen Bass
But it really kills.
Jonathan Lemire
Kills the momentum of the series. It's hard to get people into it when you're like, when's next game? Yeah, it's a week from Friday.
Karen Bass
Mike Barnacle will not watch.
Jonathan Lemire
No.
Karen Bass
If you're in his driveway, even if you're the best player in the NBA.
Morning Joe Podcast Summary – June 11, 2025
On the June 11, 2025 episode of Morning Joe, hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, along with co-host Willie Geist, delve into a range of pressing political and social issues shaping the day. The conversation spans from the escalating tensions in Los Angeles due to military deployments, ongoing trade negotiations between the U.S. and China, the volatile situation in Eastern Europe, to significant political developments in New Jersey and endorsements in New York City. The episode features insightful analyses from guests Jonathan Lemire, Katie Kay, former Congressman Carlos Curbelo, and MSNBC contributor Mike Barnicle.
The episode opens with a critical examination of California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent address responding to President Donald Trump’s decision to deploy military forces to Los Angeles. Governor Newsom delivered a forceful critique, labeling Trump's actions as an "assault on democracy" and expressing grave concerns about the implications of federalized National Guard deployments across states.
Notable Quote:
“Donald Trump [...] inflamed a combustible situation, putting our people, our officers, and even our National Guard at risk.” — Governor Gavin Newsom [00:31]
The conversation highlights the strain between state and federal authorities, emphasizing the strategic assault on reproductive health by the Trump administration and its broader impacts on vulnerable communities.
Notable Quote:
“Planned Parenthood continues its vital work without flinching. [...] donate now@plannedparenthood.org defend.” — Planned Parenthood Representative [00:00]
Karen Bass, Los Angeles Mayor, discusses the implementation of a curfew in downtown Los Angeles following clashes between protesters and law enforcement. Despite a significant law enforcement presence, Bass aims to maintain that the majority of protests remain peaceful, countering media portrayals of widespread chaos.
Notable Quote:
“If you commit violence, you will be arrested, you will be punished.” — Mayor Karen Bass [08:43]
Camilla Bernal of NBC News provides on-the-ground reporting, outlining the gradual calming of streets and the tactical arrests aimed at preventing further escalations. The hosts and guests analyze the divergent narratives presented by local officials versus national media and the White House.
Notable Quote:
“There is some aspect of chaos, but it's relatively small in comparison to Los Angeles.” — Camilla Bernal [09:22]
Jonathan Lemire of The Atlantic offers a deep dive into the White House’s satisfaction with the situation in Los Angeles, suggesting that the administration views the deployment as a demonstration of strength on immigration and law enforcement issues.
Notable Quote:
“Trump is strong while Democrats are weak and defending the indefensible.” — Senior White House Aide (Jonathan Lemire) [11:43]
Former Republican Congressman Carlos Curbelo supports the administration's actions, asserting that state leaders in California have failed to protect their communities without federal intervention.
Notable Quote:
“President Trump has all the authorities necessary, and thankfully he's willing to do it on behalf of the citizens of Los Angeles.” — Carlos Curbelo [14:20]
The discussion shifts to international trade, focusing on the framework agreement between the U.S. and China aimed at resolving issues surrounding rare earth minerals and export controls. CNBC’s Frank Holland provides an analysis of the potential economic impacts, highlighting investor sentiments and the strategic significance of these negotiations.
Notable Quote:
“Rare earths are used in almost everything from cars to laptops to mobile phones.” — Frank Holland [34:06]
The hosts also touch upon President Trump's rally at Fort Bragg, addressing his rhetoric and the presence of active-duty troops, further complicating the political landscape.
In New York City, Michael Bloomberg endorses former Governor Andrew Cuomo for mayor, emphasizing Cuomo’s administrative prowess despite acknowledging his imperfections. Concurrently, the New Jersey gubernatorial primaries result in victories for Democratic Congresswoman Mikey Sherrill and Republican Jack Cittarelli, setting the stage for a highly anticipated general election.
Notable Quote:
“Andrew Cuomo. Cuomo is currently leading the primary field.” — Mike Barnicle [24:28]
Former Congressman Curbelo praises Sherrill’s centrist approach, positioning her as a strong candidate poised to navigate the challenging political environment shaped by President Trump's influence.
Notable Quote:
“Mikey Sherrill, a centrist candidate, [...] seems to me that that's the best type of candidate for Democrats going into this fall.” — Carlos Curbelo [27:09]
The episode covers the latest developments in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, including a prisoner swap and continued missile and drone strikes by Russia. NBC News correspondent Richard Engel provides updates from Kyiv, highlighting the emotional responses of families and the fragile hope for ongoing negotiations.
Notable Quote:
“A prisoner saw her father days ago and said he's doing well. How are you doing?” — Olga Serhichuk [30:09]
Transitioning to lighter topics, the hosts briefly discuss recent sports events, including notable performances in Major League Baseball, the NFL, and the NBA. Highlights include Aaron Judge's impressive home run streak with the Yankees and Roman Anthony's breakout performance with the Red Sox, signaling promising futures for these teams.
Notable Quote:
“He appears as a major league confidence, not arrogance, just a confidence.” — Karen Bass [42:20]
As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts tease upcoming discussions, including an in-depth look at President Trump's speeches, further analysis of trade deals, and commentary from NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch regarding recent protests. They also mention the availability of the Morning Joe podcast for extended coverage.
Conclusion
The June 11 episode of Morning Joe offers a comprehensive examination of critical national and international issues, underscored by expert analyses and firsthand reporting. From the political tug-of-war in Los Angeles to strategic international negotiations, the hosts and guests provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the complexities shaping today's socio-political landscape.