Podcast Summary: The Briefing with Jen Psaki

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Briefing with Jen Psaki
• Host/Author: MSNBC
• Description: Jen Psaki tackles the biggest issues of the week and features one-on-one interviews with newsmakers.
• Episode: Trump and Allies Are Eager to Distort Protests in L.A.
• Release Date: June 11, 2025

1. Introduction and Context

In this episode of The Briefing with Jen Psaki, the focus is on the escalating tensions in Los Angeles (L.A.) amid ongoing protests and the Trump administration's response. Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to address the state, while significant federal intervention has stirred controversy and legal battles.

2. Overview of the Situation in Los Angeles

Jen Psaki opens the discussion by outlining the current state of unrest in L.A., highlighting both peaceful protests and instances of violence. The episode delves into the extensive coverage by Fox News, which often emphasizes chaotic and violent scenes to portray the city as being in turmoil.

Key Points:

• Governor Newsom's Expected Address: Anticipated around 9:30 PM Eastern Time to address the escalating situation.
• Local Emergency Declaration: The Mayor of L.A. has declared a local emergency with a curfew from 8 PM to 6 AM to curb unrest.
• Federal Intervention: President Trump has deployed 700 active-duty Marines and 4,000 National Guard members to L.A., despite opposition from both local and state officials.

Notable Quote:

"Donald Trump is insisting that this massive escalation in force is completely necessary." (02:15)

3. Legal and Political Implications

The deployment of federal troops has raised significant legal questions. Attorney General Rob Bonta of California has sought a temporary restraining order to halt the deployment, arguing that the move violates the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts military involvement in domestic law enforcement without explicit authorization.

Key Points:

• Posse Comitatus Act: Prohibits the use of federal military personnel to enforce domestic policies.
• Attorney General's Legal Challenge: Bonta contends that there is no legitimate justification—such as invasion, rebellion, or inability to enforce laws—for the President to federalize the National Guard.
• Federal Court Response: The judge has temporarily allowed the federal government 24 hours to respond, with a hearing scheduled for Thursday at 1:30 PM Pacific Time.

Notable Quotes:

"The deployed National Guards people, as well as the Marines, they have a mission to protect federal property, operations and functions and personnel." (13:25)

"Trump pretending these largely peaceful protests warrant troops in the streets of LA matters." (07:50)

4. Interview with Attorney General Rob Bonta

Jen Psaki interviews Rob Bonta, the Attorney General of California, who provides insights into the legal battle against the federal deployment.

Key Discussion Points:

• Violation of the Posse Comitatus Act: Bonta emphasizes that the deployment infringes upon lawful civilian law enforcement protocols.
• Lack of Justification: He argues that the Trump administration fails to meet the legal standards required for such a military presence.
• Potential Outcomes: A successful restraining order could lead to the withdrawal of federal troops and set a precedent for resisting unlawful military interventions in other states.

Notable Quote:

"These are National Guards, people who were on the San Diego, Mexico border combating fentanyl inflow... they will likely be returned to that work if that's what Governor Gavin Newsom wants them to do." (15:23)

5. Interview with Senator Alex Padilla

Senator Alex Padilla of California joins the discussion to further elaborate on the national implications of the situation in L.A.

Key Discussion Points:

• Militarization of Protests: Padilla criticizes the unnecessary and counterproductive use of military forces to manage largely peaceful demonstrations.
• National Impact: He warns that if Trump succeeds in federalizing the National Guard in California, similar actions could spread to other states, threatening democracy nationwide.
• Call to Action: Emphasizes the need for widespread resistance to prevent authoritarian overreach.

Notable Quotes:

"His end game is to claim and usurp more power that is not his and he is not owed because those factual conditions don't exist on the ground." (17:55)

"Democracy is next. Democracy is under assault before our eyes." (26:31)

6. On-the-Ground Report with Jacob Soboroff

Jacob Soboroff provides a live report from a candlelight vigil organized by faith leaders in L.A., showcasing the community's peaceful resistance against federal aggression.

Key Points:

• Vigil Atmosphere: Described as peaceful and unifying, contrasting sharply with media portrayals of widespread violence.
• Focus on Immigrant Rights: The vigil emphasizes protection for immigrant families and condemns ICE raids.
• Community Support: Highlighting the role of local clergy and leaders in fostering solidarity and resilience.

Notable Quote:

"What we're seeing is unmarked cars in school parking lots, kids afraid of attending their own graduation." (33:32)

7. Investigative Reporting with Matias Gaffney

Matias Gaffney, an investigative reporter from the San Francisco Chronicle, discusses exclusive findings regarding a letter from DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. The letter reveals requests for military involvement in arrests and surveillance, raising red flags about overreach and misuse of military power.

Key Discussion Points:

• Content of DHS Letter: Requests for military personnel to assist in arrests and provide drone surveillance support.
• Federal Response: Initially confirmed, then retracted the statement, indicating possible misalignment or internal conflicts within federal agencies.
• Implications: Highlights potential violations of laws restricting military involvement in domestic law enforcement.

Notable Quotes:

"There was a meeting between Hegseth Noem and Donald Trump, where they discussed this." (47:01)

"The troops will remain in the same posture... they are not going to be deputized to where they could arrest someone." (48:53)

8. Governor Gavin Newsom's Address and Final Remarks

Governor Newsom delivers a powerful address condemning the Trump administration's actions:

Key Points:

• Opposition to Militarization: Strongly denounces the deployment of National Guard and Marines for domestic law enforcement.
• Impact on Communities: Describes the trauma and fear instilled in immigrant communities through ICE raids and military presence.
• Call for Accountability: Urges citizens to stand up against authoritarian measures and protect democratic institutions.

Notable Quotes:

"A president who wants to be bound by no law or constitution, perpetuating a unified assault on American traditions." (41:00)

"Justice Brandeis, he said it best. In a democracy, the most important office... is the office of citizen." (41:25)

9. Conclusion and Additional Insights

The episode concludes with a discussion on forthcoming events, including election results in New Jersey and ongoing reporting on the situation in L.A. The conversation underscores the broader national implications of federal overreach and the critical need for vigilance in safeguarding democracy.

Final Thoughts: This episode of The Briefing with Jen Psaki provides a comprehensive examination of the tumultuous events unfolding in Los Angeles, highlighting the clash between federal authority and state sovereignty. Through interviews with key political figures and firsthand reports, the podcast offers a detailed analysis of the legal, social, and political ramifications of the Trump administration's actions, emphasizing the urgent need for democratic accountability and community resilience.