Washington state leaders denounce Trump's activation of the California National Guard against the state governor's wishes.

Pierce County Executive Ryan Mello also criticized the National Guard's activation, stating, "Actions and statements by elected leaders that escalate feelings of anger or fear are irresponsible and put everyone – protestors and uniformed personnel alike – at risk."

Anticipation is building — and some are holding their breath — ahead of Saturday’s big event: Washington’s “No Kings” protests.

The “No Kings Day of Defiance” was organized nationwide at the same time a military parade will mark the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary in Washington, D.C. The date also coincides with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday as well as Flag Day.

Ferguson reiterated he believes police can handle demonstrations, but he is in contact with the Washington National Guard ahead of "No Kings Day" protests that are expected across the state on Saturday.

As immigration protests broke out downtown Wednesday night, Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown had to strike a balance, not wanting to appear to be assisting or condoning the actions of federal immigration agents while fearful President Donald Trump could use a weak police response to justify the deployment of the national guard,

About 500 of the National Guard troops deployed to the Los Angeles protests have been trained to accompany agents on immigration operations, the commander in charge said Wednesday

The 1st Battalion, 182nd Infantry Regiment descends from militia who first formed the ranks of the Continental Army on the Cambridge Common in 1775 and is one of only three units in the Army that can display the Lexington-Concord battle streamer.

He can consent to doing so, as he has for several federal requests since taking office two years ago, or he can decline