South West Illinois News

Ed McLean, Chairman of Monroe County Republicans, said that President Trump was justified in restoring order amid the violent migrant riots that erupted in Los Angeles over the weekend. McLean made his statement to SW Illinois News.

"President Trump did what any responsible leader would do: he took action to stop the violence when local leaders failed to act," said McLean. "The riots endangered countless lives, threatening police officers, drivers, and innocent bystanders. Governor Newsom's inaction revealed a troubling lack of concern for public safety. It's worth noting that President George H. W. Bush also sent in the National Guard during the 1992 LA riots — Trump's decision wasn't unprecedented, but part of a necessary pattern when state leadership falls short."

According to the New York Post, protests in Los Angeles escalated into violent riots in response to President Trump's immigration crackdown. Demonstrators blocked the 101 Freeway, clashed with law enforcement, and set fire to several self-driving cars. Police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and flashbangs to disperse crowds, resulting in at least 27 arrests but not successfully ending the riots altogether. In response, President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to the city, marking the first such federal military deployment in California since 1965. Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the move and announced plans to sue the administration.

In a June 8 post on Truth Social, President Donald Trump said these "lawless riots only strengthen our resolve." He directed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi to take necessary actions to "liberate Los Angeles from the Migrant Invasion" and end the riots.

Fox News reported that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) urged Democrats to tone down anti-ICE rhetoric as violent protests continued in Los Angeles and threats against agents increased. DHS criticized officials including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and L.A. Mayor Karen Bass for vilifying ICE and fueling attacks. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin called recent assaults "despicable," citing a 413% spike in attacks on agents. She accused sanctuary city leaders of encouraging violence such as the protests centered around ICE’s presence and operations in Los Angeles.

McLean has been Chairman since 2016 and has represented conservative values within the Republican Party. His primary focus is making Monroe County greater as a community. A retired engineer and business leader married for 45 years, McLean resides on a small horse farm in rural Monroe County and is active in civic organizations.