Muslim World Report

Trump Fails to Compensate National Guard in Los Angeles Deployment

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | Jun 13, 2025 10:18 AM | 7 min read | 1333 words

TL;DR: National Guard troops deployed in Los Angeles under former President Donald Trump face unpaid deployments, leading to a decline in morale and potential operational issues. This situation raises serious concerns about the intersections of military service and politics, local support, and the obligations of both state and federal governments.

The Risks of Unpaid Loyalty: National Guard Troops in Los Angeles

In a troubling development that threatens both the morale of National Guard troops and the stability of federal-state relations, former President Donald Trump has recently come under fire for failing to compensate National Guard members deployed in Los Angeles. These soldiers, ostensibly sent to California to support law enforcement and community safety, are not receiving their regular paychecks from civilian employers during their deployment. While current laws protect these troops in their civilian jobs, they do not guarantee pay from the federal government during mobilization. The repercussions of this oversight extend beyond immediate financial strain; they raise profound questions about:

  • Loyalty
  • Morale
  • The broader implications of military involvement in domestic politics

Historically, the military’s role in American society has oscillated between protector and political tool. As highlighted by Strachan (2006), the motivations for soldiers to remain committed to their service can be complex, influenced by:

  • Leadership
  • Morale
  • Operational readiness

The implications of financial neglect extend beyond mere financial strain; they pose a significant risk to troop morale, which could spiral into feelings of abandonment and exploitation. When service members perceive their deployment as a politicized maneuver rather than a patriotic duty, their commitment may wane, leading to potential desertion—a concern echoed by authors like Fearon (2004), who underscore the consequences of mismanagement during crises.

The Effects of Unpaid Deployments on Troop Morale

The lack of timely pay could lead to a significant decline in morale among National Guard troops, who may feel abandoned and exploited. Such feelings of disenfranchisement can breed resentment and, in extreme cases, lead to desertion. Troops, often viewed as an extension of the civilian populace, may begin to see their deployment not as a patriotic duty but as a political maneuver designed to serve the ambitions of a former president.

Critical Questions Arise

This scenario raises critical questions about:

  • The obligations of local and federal governments to support service members
  • The absence of adequate local support compounded by the lack of financial compensation

If mismanagement continues, it risks eroding the trust that citizens place in their military and public institutions.

Potential Consequences of Low Troop Morale

The consequences of low troop morale could manifest in varied and troubling ways:

  • Increased desertion rates
  • Broader discontent affecting recruitment and retention
  • Risks to the mental health of service members due to stress, as noted by Connorton et al. (2011)

A significant deterioration in morale might lead to:

  • Reduced operational effectiveness
  • Troops who feel demoralized are less likely to perform at their best, potentially compromising their ability to manage crises effectively, especially in urban environments like Los Angeles.

What If Troop Morale Deteriorates?

Should troop morale continue to plummet, several troubling repercussions could ensue, including:

  • Increased instances of desertion
  • Broader discontent affecting military readiness and recruitment

Moreover, dissatisfaction within the ranks could manifest in vocal protests or organized resistance. Historically, dissent within the military is viewed as a challenge to order and discipline, as outlined by Kelly et al. (2014). An environment where personnel feel compelled to publicly express grievances could create significant tensions between military authority and governance.

Long-term Implications

The erosion of trust in military leadership could have long-term implications for recruitment and retention. New recruits often look to existing personnel for cues about the validity of a military career.

Consequently, should existing members express dissatisfaction, it will be increasingly challenging to attract new volunteers, leading to potential staffing shortages that impact the military’s capacity to engage in both domestic and international missions.

What If Local Governments Withdraw Support?

The situation could take a complicated turn if local governments, citing their lack of input in troop deployments and ongoing financial neglect, choose to withdraw support for the National Guard. California Governor Gavin Newsom has already faced criticism for his perceived inaction regarding these deployments.

Potential Outcomes of Withdrawal

If local support evaporates, National Guard units may find themselves:

  • Isolated
  • Under-resourced

Their ability to function effectively will be severely hampered. The troops, meant to maintain public order, may struggle to secure necessary supplies and logistical support. This could severely undermine their mission to uphold public safety, potentially escalating unrest in the communities they are meant to protect.

Moreover, this lack of support could spark larger discussions around the legality and appropriateness of federal troop deployments in state matters, leading to:

  • Legal challenges
  • Public outcry
  • Increased tension between state and federal authorities

Should local governments officially withdraw support, public sentiment against the National Guard may tilt, as communities begin to view these troops as political pawns rather than protectors.

What If the Situation Sparks National Protest?

Should the circumstances surrounding unpaid deployments to the National Guard escalate into larger national protests, the implications could be far-reaching. A public outcry against the perceived abandonment of service members could mobilize citizens who are deeply concerned about military personnel’s treatment.

Coalition Building

National protests could attract a coalition of advocacy groups, including:

  • Veterans’ organizations
  • Labor unions
  • Social justice movements

Such coalitions could gain widespread media coverage, amplifying their message and pressuring government officials for a response. If protests gain traction, they might challenge narratives surrounding national defense and the treatment of military personnel.

Potential Backlash

However, protests could also provoke a negative backlash from segments of the population that view military personnel as the embodiment of national pride, creating an environment of polarization.

In the worst-case scenario, national protests could prompt a crackdown from authorities, leading to:

  • Increased militarization of police forces
  • Tensions between citizens and the state

The potential for unrest could lead to increased scrutiny of civil rights, freedom of speech, and the role of the military in domestic matters.

Strategic Maneuvers: Navigating a Complex Landscape

Given the precarious situation surrounding the National Guard in Los Angeles, a multi-pronged approach is essential for all stakeholders involved.

Recommendations for Addressing the Crisis

  1. Federal Accountability: The federal government must be held responsible for the financial welfare of deployed troops, ensuring they receive due compensation. Prompt legislative action is necessary.

  2. State Support: The state government, represented by Governor Newsom, should engage with the National Guard to discuss logistical support and operational needs, publicly affirming commitment to the troops.

  3. Community Engagement: Local authorities must coordinate outreach efforts to explain the responsibilities of deployed troops, thereby fostering a positive community perception.

  4. Military Leadership Reassessment: Military leadership ought to reassess its approach to managing deployments, focusing on transparency and support for service members.

  5. Advocacy for Systemic Reforms: Advocacy groups should leverage this situation to push for broader systemic reforms in military support and compensation.

The unfolding events surrounding the National Guard in Los Angeles reflect larger societal issues that require urgent attention and action. The interplay between loyalty, political maneuvering, and community support presents a complex landscape that demands clear strategies from all involved. As these dynamics evolve, the responsibility lies with both state and federal authorities to ensure that those who serve are treated with the dignity, respect, and support they deserve.

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