‘Get ready’: LA journalists warn of potential violence against press ahead of nationwide protests

As protests over U.S. immigration enforcement raids began throughout the country last week, journalists rushed to cover the rapidly evolving story. Focus turned to Los Angeles, California, as President Donald Trump deployed the National Guard and Marines, notably without California Governor Gavin Newsom’s consent. 

Journalists on the ground in LA quickly became part of the story as they faced an onslaught of tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets, and other forms of “less lethal” munitions.   

The U.S. Press Freedom Tracker, of which CPJ is a founding member, is investigating at least seven...