National Guard members and concrete barricades now surround the Ronald Reagan Federal Building and Courthouse in downtown Santa Ana following vandalism earlier this week.
The added security, while meant to deter further damage, has created unexpected challenges for nearby businesses.
As of Friday, uniformed soldiers stood watch outside the courthouse. Wooden boards still covered several of the building’s windows after being targeted during demonstrations. While law enforcement says the increased presence is necessary, business owners say the sight of military personnel and blocked streets is driving customers away.
“Fridays are usually our busiest days,” said one local restaurant employee, who asked not to be named. “But today, there are so many empty tables. With the closures and the military out there, people are scared. They don’t want to come down here.”
From her storefront across the street, she described the atmosphere as “overwhelming,” adding, “It’s crazy to step outside and see the military right in front of you.”
The federal building was one of several sites in Orange County targeted amid growing tensions over recent immigration enforcement actions. While protests remain mostly peaceful, several incidents of property damage prompted a stronger response from authorities.
Earlier this week in Anaheim, a protest near Angel Stadium and Disneyland was declared an unlawful assembly, though police reported that the crowd eventually dispersed without any arrests.
Back in Santa Ana, police say 16 people have been arrested since demonstrations began earlier in the week. Officials have not specified how long the National Guard will remain stationed outside the courthouse.
While many residents support measures to prevent further vandalism, others question whether the heavy security presence sends the wrong message or creates more anxiety in an already tense environment.
As Santa Ana continues to navigate the balance between public safety and civil expression, businesses are left hoping for calmer days ahead – and a return to normal foot traffic.
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