NEWSL.A. Mayor Karen Bass Issues Stark Warning Over World Cup Amid Immigration Riots Tensions
L.A. Mayor Karen Bass warned of World Cup unrest as immigration riots raised citywide security fears.
June 24 2025, Published 7:25 p.m. ET
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has publicly warned of potential fallout on the upcoming World Cup, amid escalating tensions surrounding immigration riots in the city.
During a recent press conference, Bass expressed her concerns, stating the local economy could face dire consequences if former President Donald Trump continues his deportation efforts.
Los Angeles will host 2026 World Cup.
According to Bass, the situation in Los Angeles could take a severe turn. She stated, "the city's economy will 'collapse' if Trump deports more illegal migrants," calling on the former president to reconsider his approach.
In a pointed remark directed at Trump, she added, "Don't you want the World Cup to be a success for you?" confirming that the forthcoming global event holds significant importance for the city and its economic stability.
The warning comes in the wake of widespread protests ignited by anti-ICE demonstrators, who have been rallying against police raids and what they believe to be unfair deportation practices. The protests began last Friday and escalated over the weekend, leading to an upsurge in violence and vandalism throughout downtown Los Angeles. As it stands, local business owners find themselves at the mercy of destructive looters, as downtown stores have become prime targets for rioters amid the unrest.
Local officials have reported significant damage caused by protesters, who have resorted to graffiti and vandalism, igniting a fierce response from law enforcement. In response to the turmoil, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that military personnel would remain in Los Angeles for up to 60 days in an effort to curb the rampant violence attributed to "rioters, looters and thugs."
Anti-ICE protesters demand an end to immigration raids and deportations.
Local business owners have responded with outrage, decrying the ongoing carnage while calling for heightened protection of their establishments. The unrest has put a spotlight on the deeper issues surrounding immigration and community safety in the face of volatile political climates.
In response to the riots, Trump has ordered an additional deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to the city. The President maintains that the decision was crucial to restoring order, asserting that without the National Guard's intervention, "the city would have been 'completely obliterated.'"
His administration holds fast to the notion that these deployments are necessary during a time of crisis.
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Governor Gavin Newsom's administration has taken a stand against the military presence, filing a lawsuit over the deployment of National Guard members in California. Officials from the Golden State alleged that Trump had "trampled" on the state's sovereignty, further complicating the already challenging dynamic between local and federal authorities during this period of unrest.
Before he became Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth contributed to Fox News.
As the chaos continues, officials are working tirelessly to establish a sense of normalcy across the city. Los Angeles has long been a hub of diversity and cultural vibrancy, making the upcoming World Cup an event that city leaders cannot afford to jeopardize further. Bass' appeal to Trump is not only about the migrants affected by the deportation threats but also emphasizes the broader impact such policies could have on the reputation and economic welfare of Los Angeles.
Local business owners are beginning to worry that the ongoing turmoil might overshadow the upcoming World Cup, potentially deterring tourists and impacting revenue streams crucial for their recovery post-pandemic.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Mayor Bass is not alone in her concerns. Residents and business owners alike are taking to social media to voice their fears as the city balances the challenges of public safety with the pressing need for economic stability during these uncertain times.
Residents and businesses are fearful about what comes next.
As Los Angeles prepares to host one of the world's largest sporting events, all eyes remain on local officials and their efforts to navigate the political tensions that threaten to disrupt the very foundation of the city's economy. The mayor's plea stands as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of public policy, community safety, and economic vibrancy during this critical juncture for Los Angeles.
With the World Cup looming on the horizon, it remains to be seen how city officials will ensure the event can proceed amid these ongoing tensions and how they will address the concerns stemming from the ongoing immigration crisis.
