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What a decade! Celebrating Barbara Bruderlin’s leadership

By
Barbara Burke
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Malibu Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce CEO Barbara Bruderlin speaks at a past Malibu State of the City address.

The Malibu Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce honors Barbara Bruderlin for 10 years of dedicated service, advocacy, and community impact

Accolades were bestowed on Barbara Bruderlin, lauding her aptitude, courage, and visionary leadership after she announced her resignation as chief executive officer of the Malibu Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce. Many of the complimentary comments honoring her almost 10 years of service and her legacy were imbued with adjectives such as “irreplaceable” and “visionary.” 

“What a loss for the community and chamber!” Denise Kniter of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’s office gushed. “You’ve done so much for the Palisades!” 

Indeed, at a luncheon honoring Bruderlin’s service to both Pacific Palisades and Malibu, the mayor’s office convinced Bruderlin to agree to help those on the Chamber Board to host a commercial landowner listening session that Bruderlin was spearheading because that important business community constituency has not been given voice in a public forum since the Palisades Fire.

Upon receiving Bruderlin’s notice of resignation, the Chamber issued a statement praising her and saying that she led the Chamber and its member businesses through numerous crises during her nearly 10-year term as CEO, navigating the Woolsey Fire, the COVID-19 pandemic, and most recently, the Franklin and Palisades fires that devastated the local economies of both communities. The statement read “Barbara served as a beacon of hope for small business owners looking for a friendly ear, a trusted friend of local officials and a voice for the communities she served.” 

“We are grateful for Barbara’s unwavering commitment to our beautiful coastal communities,” said Ramis Sadrieh, chair of the PaliBu Chamber. “She’s led our Chamber with grace, and we appreciate her efforts.” 

A decade of impressively productive service 

Since Bruderlin started serving as CEO of the Malibu Chamber of Commerce almost a decade ago, she has led the Chamber’s support of its members and the greater community in response to the Woolsey Fire, the global pandemic, the Broad, Franklin, and Palisades fires, and mudslides. 

The Malibu Times sat down with Bruderlin so readers can get an overview of her service and the Chamber’s in Malibu as well as the Pacific Palisades.

When asked about the skill set and professional experience she brought to the Chamber of Commerce CEO position, Bruderlin shared, “From songwriting to acting, to creating a major at UCLA and working as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals, to helping my brother, Brian Bruderlin, launch Paramount Recording Studios, I have done a variety of things throughout my career,” Bruderlin said. “At Humana Corporate, I assisted three directors who oversaw 13 hospitals and five insurance branches, and I also was a construction coordinator on Barbara Streisand’s 1790 Barnhouse Reproduction — after all those varied experiences, somehow running the Chamber of Commerce seemed like a natural next step!”

Bruderlin candidly noted that “You need to be ready for anything when you run a chamber. There is a never ending stream of curious, ambitious business owners, all filled with grand ideas and enthusiasm. Ideas take flight and spinning those into reality is a specialty of a chamber and helping to empower a business to flourish is a dream come true!”

Helping nascent businesses find their audience in a community is but one small role played by a Chamber of Commerce. “Chambers also work with nonprofit organizations, advocate for legislative bills and programs that support small businesses, and work with the heads of wonderful major companies,  mayors,  assemblymembers, county supervisors, and even the governor,” Bruderlin explained. “I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as a liaison between our businesses and all of those people and entities and I note that the Chamber’s sponsoring the annual State of the City in Malibu provides an opportunity for our members and elected local and regional leaders to interface.” 

Importantly, Bruderlin noted that “Chamber leaders need to be ready to pivot. You need to help new businesses find their strength, find free business programs, education, and help them celebrate their launch and successes.”

Leading the Chamber during times of troubles and disasters meant “serving as a watchful eye and helping businesses to navigate the aftermath of disasters,  which we’ve seen more than our fair share of over the last eight years,” Bruderlin commented. “It meant the Chamber helping businesses and the greater community through COVID by constantly changing updates about regulations relating to protocols during the pandemic.” Those tireless efforts earned Bruderlin a commendation from the City of Malibu in 2021.

Discussing the various initiatives that she spearheaded, Bruderlin highlights putting on a massive three-day Art Festival throughout Cross Creek in 2017, an undertaking that she said taught her “that anything is possible if you just dig in and have faith!” That realization proved so crucial in her ability to encourage and uplift others, she noted. The festival was soon followed by the launch of the Chamber’s Women’s Leadership Awards, when the organization celebrated the heroes following the Woolsey Fire.  

After the pandemic, the Palisades Chamber approached Bruderlin to discuss merging the Malibu and Pacific Palisades Chambers. 

“Though Malibu and Palisades are so different, we share residents who are old-fashioned and family-centric.” Bruderlin observed. “We share the largest urban park in the world — with 150,000 acres and a 67- mile backbone trail. Together, our two communities have vineyards reminiscent of Tuscany in Malibu’s wine country and polo fields in the Palisades.”

Bruderlin emphasized, “The California Attorney General is currently reviewing our final papers to make the merger official.” 

Bruderlin also reflected on the impact of recent disasters on the business community. “After the Woolsey Fire, the City of Malibu called and asked if the chamber would take over creating a list of rebuild professionals, and vet them,” she explained. “Subsequently the chamber hosted monthly Rebuild Malibu Mixer/EXPOs for a year — those were events where home rebuilders could go to Dukes Malibu and share dinner with a large group of rebuild professionals and get to know them. And once again the Chamber’s upcoming Rebuild EXPO will be hosting for the Palisades Fire home rebuilders.” 

Bruderlin noted that after wildfires and other disasters, the Chamber plays a unique role in helping struggling businesses obtain grants, funding that often literally makes the difference between a small business surviving or closing. 

“The small businesses that suffered business interruption from the fires, and the closure of Pacific Coast Highway, Sunset, and Topanga Boulevard really suffered from lack of businesses and it was six months before they received any grants,” Bruderlin explained. “That inspired me to begin the PaliBu Rise and Thrive Business Fund, with fiscal sponsor Creative Visions. We successfully raised $325,000 for that fund from Goldman Sachs, FireAid, The Annenberg Foundation, and So Cal Gas. Also, the California Community Foundation generously sponsored the Chamber so that we could continue our mission to support small businesses. My dream is that in the future if, God forbid, anything happens, we now have this nonprofit foundation in place to be able to immediately accept donations and get them to our local businesses.”

The Rise and Thrive Fund is only a small part of Bruderlin’s legacy at the Chamber. Those wishing her well shared various insights, with local businessperson Meris Gebhardt stating, “You are truly one of the most incredible and brave humans I know, holding all of us during crisis and celebration alike. I’m a better person because of you.” Kate Kimmel of the Topanga Farmers Market encapsulated the sentiment of many expressing appreciation for Bruderlin’s support, stating, “I am especially grateful for the way you introduced me to valuable connections and encouraged me to promote more bolding on social media — it made a real difference. The Malibu and Palisades business community was lucky to have your advocacy and leadership for so many years.” 

Burt’s Eye View: My Brother Burt 

By
Burt Ross
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The Ross brothers, Burt and Phil. Circa 1975. Photo by Tana Ross

By Philip Ross, Guest Columnist 

Note to Reader: My one and only sibling, Phil Ross, is a professional journalist turned therapist. He is not only the real writer in the family, but, at least according to him, is funnier than I, his younger brother by three years and nine months.

For several years, my brother Burt has been urging me to write a guest column. He says this will give him a break from the daunting task of entertaining his readers with words witty and wise. The truth, I suspect, is that he hopes his big brother will use this occasion to shower him with praise.

And so I shall. But first, a few recollections from his otherwise monumental, dare I say, Herculean life we need to get out of the way.

As kids, Burt and I slept in the same bedroom. His idea of a great night was to wait, until we were about to fall asleep, then start shouting, “Mom, Dad, help!!! Phil is hitting me!” Needless to say, the folks would come racing in, ignore my pleas of innocence, and warn me of the dire consequences that would befall me if I didn’t leave my poor little brother alone. And when they left, that lousy little brother’s face would light up with a grin, and he would drift off into blissful sleep.

At Harvard, Burt was introduced to Princess Christina of Sweden, who was attending Radcliffe at the time. “Pleased to meet you,” he greeted the Princess. “I’ve heard that Copenhagen is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.”

A couple of years before he ran for mayor, Burt thought his career might be as a standup comedian. He put together a routine and tried it out at a Chinese restaurant. The audience response? Let’s just say it was so quiet you could hear the sound of chopsticks.

Okay, so nobody’s perfect. Let’s get back to the good stuff, the qualities which make Burt not just my brother but my idol. Three things that immediately come to mind:

Burt has never knowingly run a red light.

He always gives his wife a card on her birthday.

He’s never asked me for a loan.

And there you have it. May these accolades fill my brother’s heart with pride and joy.

Agoura Animal Shelter Pet of the Week, Meet Loki: Thursday, July 31

By
Office Manager
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Meet Loki A5666541


At 9 years old, Loki is the kind of dog who reminds you how special senior dogs truly are. He’s goofy, gentle, affectionate, and just wants to be part of the fun.

He loves plush toys (even if they only last five seconds), naps like a pro, and thrives when surrounded by people and love. He’s amazing with other dogs, wonderful with kids, and one of the sweetest souls we’ve met.

Loki has been in foster care since the LA fires, and during that time, HHA funded his medical care, including a full dental with extractions, removal and testing of multiple benign lumps, treatment for ear infections, skin allergies, and more — all so he could feel his best and find his forever home.

Care Center Hours:
Monday-Saturday 11am-5pm
Closed* on Sunday and holidays

29525 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
agoura@animalcare.lacounty.gov

City of Malibu appoints Ronda Perez as new city manager

By
The Malibu Times
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The City of Malibu has announced the unanimous appointment of Ronda Perez as its new City Manager, following approval by the Malibu City Council. Her term will begin on Aug. 25.

According to the City’s press release, Perez brings nearly 20 years of experience in public service, having most recently served as City Manager of Palmdale and previously as Assistant City Manager of Lancaster. She was recognized in both roles for her leadership in securing critical infrastructure funding, expanding community programs, and overseeing major municipal projects, including obtaining local control of a Caltrans-managed stretch of state highway in Palmdale.

“I am honored and excited to join the Malibu team,” said Perez. “Malibu is a unique and extraordinary community, and I look forward to drawing on my experience to support its recovery and guide purposeful, resilient redevelopment, while remaining ever-mindful of the Vision and Mission of Malibu to protect and preserve its fragile nature and rural character. It’s a privilege to be offered the opportunity to lead Malibu’s talented team of city staff, and I am committed to helping Malibu rebuild stronger, safer, and with a clear vision for the future.”

Mayor Marianne Riggins welcomed the appointment, stating, “With Malibu still recovering from the devastating impacts of recent wildfires, consistent and capable leadership is essential. Ronda’s expertise will help accelerate the rebuild process while honoring and preserving the rural character and spirit that make Malibu so special.”

Perez is an International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Credentialed Manager and holds a master’s degree from California State University, Long Beach. She also completed a leadership certificate through the Harvard Kennedy School’s Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program.

Her employment contract will be formally presented for approval at the next Regular City Council Meeting, scheduled for Monday, Aug. 11, at 5:30 p.m. at Malibu City Hall and remotely via Zoom. Details will be made available at MalibuCity.org/AgendaCenter.

The City also expressed its appreciation to Interim City Manager Candace Bond, who has served since May 13, leading Malibu during a critical time of recovery. Bond’s term will conclude when Perez officially assumes her new role later this month.

Look for the full article in next week edition of The Malibu Times.

Letter to the Editor: Summer Wheaton’s Frivolous Lawsuit Aims for Publicity

By
Letter to the Editor
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Dear Editor,

Concerning Ms. Summer Wheaton’s recently filed lawsuit against the bereaved wife of former Ride Share driver, Martin Okeke — whose vehicle Wheaton hit in a 4th of July, 2023 car crash as a result of her drunken driving, I believe Ms. Wheaton’s obviously frivolous lawsuit is merely a publicity stunt. In my honest opinion, she is once again fanning herself in self-adulation with her bad news — it has undoubtedly garnered many hits on her online sites, seeing as how even bad news offers free publicity, and now she is churlishly taking advantage to keep her name alive on social media — where “hits” are what it’s all about.  

How very much more terrible she makes the awful tragedy, especially for the deceased victim’s wife, who lost her husband and now is being sued by the sotted publicity seeker who caused her to lose him. Drunk drivers must not be permitted to mock the law and our courts. Any scofflaw who drives drunk should bear the blame, just like drivers with no insurance. All are well aware drunk driving kills people!

Patti Morey, Ashland, OR

To submit a Letter to the Editor, click here to email it directly to editorial@malibutimes.com.

Malibu High School: On time and on budget

By
Barbara Burke
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Slated to open in August, new campus will provide a learning-friendly, high-tech, and safe environment

Slated to open in August, new campus will provide a learning-friendly, high-tech, and safe environment

On a gorgeous Malibu afternoon, many who gathered to enjoy a celebratory tour of the soon-to-be-completed sleek, modern, high-tech Malibu High School were those residents who have voluntarily served for years on committees tasked with planning all the details involved in creating a stellar campus offering inviting and practical learning spaces for Malibu’s next generations. 

Carey Upton, chief operations officer of the Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District, escorted attendees as they enjoyed a tour through the 60,000-square-foot building. He noted that NAC Architecture is working in collaboration with Koning Eizenberg Architecture on the project and C.W. Driver Companies is the contractor. The design for the new MHS received a prestigious award for excellence from the American Institute of Architects, California, in March 2024, he noted.

“The high school project is being completed earlier than we predicted as the students will be able to start attending school in September, instead of having to wait until mid-year.” Upton stated. “Further, we are on budget for the project as well.” 

The new high school was constructed on the former Juan Cabrillo Elementary footprint, which was demolished in 2022. Innovative and impressive in design and expansive in size, the campus’ buildings boast natural materials, including weathered metals, glass, and natural timbers, all elements that were specifically selected for their design aesthetics as well as to provide students a welcoming,  practical, and flexible learning environment. The new campus is as wildfire-resilient as possible and prioritizes campus safety, Upton emphasized.  

“This part of the project, the new high school, is Phase 1 of the campus plan and is funded by Measure M, which was approved by the voters in 2018.” Upton explained, adding that construction for Phase 1 is estimated to cost $110 million. “Voters also approved Measure MM this past November which will fund Phase 2 of the Campus Improvement project, including constructing new middle school facilities, which should be ready in the fall of 2026.”

Upton stated that the middle school will have a new multipurpose room/gymnasium, outdoor eating area, and other educational support spaces. “Phase 2 will also include a space for special education, which will be ready in August 2028, and a new 40-meter outdoor pool, locker rooms and support areas, which is scheduled to be ready six months after that,” he said. “The project also includes adding on to the existing gym and construction of the new performing arts center which is tentatively scheduled for opening in 2029 or 2030.”

Open spaces, open minds

Those touring the school were most impressed by the modern classrooms, including science laboratory rooms and the open-concept library, areas that feature flexible wall systems that can be used to configure various learning environments. 

“The school is designed to follow the Sycamore educational philosophy, which emphasizes student-led, project-based learning and therefore we have developed integrated learning areas utilizing the entire building as classrooms at times.” said Michael Burke, the project design manager for Massetti Consulting, LLC, the district’s contracted firm that specializes in conceptual project development, funding and financing strategies, and design professional procurement practices. 

Further, Upton noted that the landscaping at the school will be wildfire-resilient and will include defensible spaces as recommended by the fire department to protect the school as much as possible. 

“There will be a security perimeter for the students’ safety with a security gate and bullet resistant window film,” Upton said, adding that the landscape design preserved legacy trees in the school’s entrance area. 

As the group toured, Eric Amber, a project design manager, smiled broadly and exclaimed, “I graduated from Malibu High School in 1996 — it’s so good to be back home and to be involved in this project!”

“The school is beautifully designed and very practical.” Lou LaMonte, former Malibu mayor and city councilmember, who noted that he has served on civic advisory committees charged with planning the school campus for several years. “It’s been a labor of love that took a long time — but look how wonderful it is!”

Measure M Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee

After the tour, those serving on the Measure M Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee gathered at the high school for a meeting concerning final details to bring the school to scale as well as to deliberate about details concerning Phase 2 of the Malibu Campus Plan and the emergency power and solar farm, both of which are in the design phase. 

“Power outages have plagued Malibu’s schools this past year which has resulted in lost school days, including Southern California Edison’s safety power shutoffs that can last one or more days and are often initiated due to wildfires or storms,” Upton explained, noting that school officials are working to ensure that there are generators in place to provide consistent power for continuity of school operations. “We hope to have the solar farm ready for operation by April 2026 to address power outage concerns, and we hope to be ready for the next set of safety power shutoffs in November 2026.”

Upton also provided an overview of the school district’s efforts to address school safety and security. “The City of Malibu has been working on ideas for safety and security in local schools,” he noted. “The council voted to provide a half-time campus security officer for Malibu’s public schools and, of course, the officers tasked to work on the juvenile intervention team are also on campus as well.” 

In closing, Upton noted that the Malibu Education Foundation continues to provide donation and naming opportunities for the Arlene and Dick Van Dyke Theater. 

The Malibu Times caught up with Karin Al Hardin, the Foundation’s founding executive director. “As community leaders and educators toured the new high school, the Malibu Education Foundation reminds residents that state-of-the-art facilities need strong staffing and programs to match,” Al Hardin said. “MEF funds essentials such as aides, tutors, arts, and athletics across all four Malibu public schools — and our organization is building long-term support through efforts like the Van Dyke Endowment for the Arts.”

Al Hardin asked readers to please save Oct. 4 as the date of the MEF Gala at Malibu High. Malibuites can learn more or donate at malibueducationafoundation.org, where donors can designate the Van Dyke endowment for their donation.   

Debris Removal complete along PCH in wake of Palisades Fire

By
The Malibu Times
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Final FEMA-Assigned Parcel Cleared as Recovery Enters New Phase

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), in partnership with FEMA, the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), Los Angeles County, and other local agencies, completed debris removal on the final FEMA-assigned parcel along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), marking a major milestone in the recovery from the devastating Palisades Fire.

The final clearance, located on a fire-scarred stretch of the PCH, marks a turning point in Malibu’s recovery. Since March, crews have been working around the clock to clear fire debris from thousands of affected parcels along the coast. The PCH corridor, in particular, posed unique logistical and environmental challenges due to its proximity to steep coastal slopes, residential areas, and sensitive ecosystems.

“Clearing this final parcel along the Pacific Coast Highway represents both a significant physical achievement and a powerful emotional moment for our coastal communities,” said Capt. Kyle Fleming, Emergency Field Office – Palisades. “Across the Palisades Fire footprint, we have removed over 1 million tons of debris and cleared more than 3,500 properties, including more than 230 parcels along the PCH. This milestone reflects the tireless commitment and collaboration of everyone involved.”

While this marks the final currently assigned parcel along the PCH, officials note that FEMA may still designate additional properties, especially if homeowners opt into the debris removal program or if properties qualify for special inclusion. USACE teams will remain on the ground until all operations are complete.

Debris removal along the coast required precise coordination and adherence to rigorous safety and environmental standards. Crews implemented extensive dust control protocols, including water suppression, truck tarping, and continuous air quality monitoring, to ensure safety for nearby residents and workers. Erosion control measures, such as hydro mulching and slope stabilization, were critical in protecting the integrity of the surrounding hillsides and coastal ecosystems.

“All activities were conducted in close coordination with federal, state, and local agencies to ensure public safety and environmental protection throughout the operation,” Fleming said.

USACE leaders praised the multi-agency effort and highlighted the engineering complexity of working in such a sensitive and high-visibility area.

“This milestone is a testament to the strong partnerships that have driven this mission from the beginning,” said Col. Sonny Avichal, commander of the USACE Recovery Field Office. “We are proud of the engineering expertise and operational focus our teams have brought to this complex mission, and we remain committed to seeing it through to full completion.”

The debris removal program, a key step before reconstruction can begin, has provided not just physical clearing of lots but also hope and momentum for residents ready to rebuild. With the completion of this final FEMA-assigned PCH parcel, coastal neighborhoods are now closer to the next chapter in recovery.

Tsunami Watch Upgraded to Tsunami Advisory for California Coast

By
The Malibu Times
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UPDATE 7:00 p.m.: The National Tsunami Warning Center has upgraded the earlier Tsunami Watch to a Tsunami Advisory for the entire California coastline, including Southern California, effective until further notice.

The advisory follows a confirmed tsunami-generating 8.7 magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula at 4:24 p.m. PT on Monday, July 29.

A Tsunami Advisory means a tsunami is either expected or already occurring and may bring strong currents and dangerous waves to those in or near the water. While widespread coastal flooding is not expected, localized inundation is possible.

Officials urge the public to stay out of the water and away from beaches, piers, and coastal waterways. Do not attempt to observe the waves, as conditions may be hazardous.

Residents in coastal areas should remain alert and monitor official updates. The estimated arrival time for tsunami activity in the Los Angeles Harbor is approximately 1:05 a.m.

For the latest information, visit the National Tsunami Warning Center at: tsunami.gov

Tsunami watch issued for California coast, including Malibu, following 8.7 earthquake off Russia’s eastern shore

A tsunami watch was issued Tuesday afternoon, July 29, for the entire California coastline — including Malibu — after a powerful 8.7 magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s remote eastern coast near the Kamchatka Peninsula.

The earthquake occurred at 4:25 p.m. PT, approximately 80 miles southwest of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. The National Tsunami Warning Center in Alaska quickly issued advisories, including a tsunami warning for portions of the Alaska Aleutian Islands and a tsunami watch for coastal areas of California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii.

Although Malibu beaches remain open, city officials and public safety personnel are urging residents and visitors to avoid the shoreline, piers, and river mouths. The National Weather Service warns that tsunami waves can wrap around land masses, posing threats even in locations not directly facing the quake zone.

The City of Malibu confirmed the local impact of the alert on social media:

“The National Tsunami Warning Center has issued a Tsunami Watch for the entire California coast, including Southern California, in effect until further notice, following a confirmed tsunami-generating 8.7 earthquake that struck the north Pacific off Russia at 4:24 p.m. today.”

A tsunami watch means a tsunami might occur. It is issued as a precaution after a potentially tsunami-generating event, but before confirmation that a tsunami has been detected. Officials urge the public to stay alert and be prepared to move quickly to higher ground if conditions change.

The estimated tsunami arrival time for the Los Angeles Harbor is currently projected for 1:05 a.m. on Wednesday, July 30.

City staff is coordinating with the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management and will continue to monitor the situation closely, posting updates as needed.

Malibu Residents Are Urged To:

  • Monitor official news and emergency alert systems
  • Avoid beaches, coves, piers, and coastal trails
  • Be prepared with an evacuation plan, especially if living in low-lying coastal zones

As of Tuesday evening, no tsunami waves had been detected. However, seismic activity and ocean buoy data are being closely monitored across the Pacific.

A tsunami watch is the lowest of the three alert levels issued by the National Tsunami Warning Center. It serves as an early advisory that a tsunami is possible. In contrast, a tsunami warning means a tsunami is either imminent or already occurring and can result in dangerous flooding, strong currents, and destructive waves.

For official updates, follow the City of Malibu – Government and Malibu Emergency Services on social media. You can also sign up for emergency alerts at Alert LA County and visit the National Tsunami Warning Center for real-time information.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned to verified sources for updates as the situation evolves.

Solo vehicle crash on PCH sends driver to hospital by airlift

By
The Malibu Times
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Malibu Volunteers on Patrol (VOP), Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station deputies, and Los Angeles County Fire Department – Division VII units responded to a solo vehicle collision near 27000 Pacific Coast Highway on Monday afternoon. The driver sustained injuries and was airlifted from the scene.

The #2 eastbound lane remains closed as first responders await a tow truck and work to clear the area.

Drivers are advised to use caution and expect delays.

Pentagon orders U.S. Marines to withdraw from Los Angeles 

By
The Malibu Times
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The Pentagon has ordered the withdrawal of 700 U.S. Marines from Los Angeles, ending a controversial deployment that began more than a month ago under orders from President Donald Trump. The Marines, from the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, were deployed on June 9 following escalating protests over the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

The Marines had been stationed at two federal sites in the city, including the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office and detention facility in downtown L.A. They were also seen outside a federal complex in West L.A., where they briefly detained a man claiming to be en route to a Veterans Affairs appointment — an incident that fueled criticism from local officials and veterans’ groups.

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell defended the deployment, stating, “The military presence sent a clear message: lawlessness will not be tolerated.”

However, the presence of active-duty troops and the federalization of California’s National Guard sparked immediate backlash from city and state leaders. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, flanked by veterans’ group leaders at a press conference Monday morning, applauded the withdrawal and called for the remaining National Guard troops to leave the city.

“This is another win for Los Angeles but this is also a win for those serving this country in uniform,” Bass said. “Los Angeles stands with our troops, which is why we are glad they are leaving.”

The Marine withdrawal comes just a week after half of the 4,000 National Guard troops were ordered to stand down. The remaining Guard personnel are still stationed in the city, despite ongoing legal efforts to bring them home.

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a staunch critic of the deployment, filed a lawsuit in June challenging the federal government’s actions. Newsom argued that Trump had unlawfully bypassed him by activating and federalizing the state’s Guard units without consent. A federal district court initially sided with Newsom, but the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued a temporary stay, allowing the deployment to continue.

Newsom, who had included the Marines in the early stages of the lawsuit, renewed his call Monday for the Guard’s full withdrawal.

“The women and men of the California National Guard deserve more than to continue serving as puppets in Trump and Stephen Miller’s performative political theater,” Newsom said in a statement. “There was never a need for the military to deploy against civilians in Los Angeles.”

The use of active-duty military on domestic soil is exceedingly rare and, in this case, has raised broader constitutional concerns. Legal scholars and civil liberties advocates have questioned the precedent set by federalizing a state’s Guard against the governor’s wishes and deploying troops in response to domestic protests.

As the Marines depart and the legal battle over the National Guard’s role continues, many in Los Angeles hope the city can begin to heal from weeks of tension, protest, and federal intervention.

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