Sen. Markwayne Mullin defended President Donald Trump’s sending the National Guard to the Los Angeles area, telling CNN’s “State of the Union” on Sunday that it was crucial despite denials by California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

The Oklahoma Republican said that “if the governor or the mayor of a city isn’t willing to protect the citizens of his state or the city, then the president will.”

Newsom, a Democrat, said in a statement on Saturday that Trump’s move “is purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions,” insisting that “L.A. authorities are able to access law enforcement assistance at a moment’s notice. We are in close coordination with the city and county, and there is currently no unmet need.” 

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