Importance Score: 75 / 100 🔴
Appeals Court Upholds Trump’s Authority Over National Guard Deployment in Los Angeles
A US appeals court has affirmed that then-President Donald Trump retained authority over National Guard troops deployed to Los Angeles, dismissing objections from California Governor Gavin Newsom and other city authorities. This decision concerns the deployment of National Guard troops during widespread protests.
Deployment Context and Local Opposition
Trump initiated the troop deployment amid widespread demonstrations, sparking controversy. Local officials denounced the move as an unnecessary provocation, escalating tensions within the city.
Court Ruling Details
Appeals Court Backs Presidential Authority
On Thursday, a panel of three judges ruled that Trump acted within his legal boundaries by ordering the National Guard into service. The court cited the necessity to “protect federal personnel… [and] property” as justification for the deployment. Trump hailed the decision as a “big win.”
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Overturning Lower Court Decision
The ruling effectively suspends a previous judgment from a lower court judge, who had determined that Trump acted unlawfully when mobilizing the troops. Judge Charles Breyer had argued that Trump “did not” adhere to congressional stipulations regarding National Guard deployments within a state, stating:
- “His actions were illegal…”
- “He must therefore return control of the California National Guard to the Governor of the State of California forthwith.”
The initial order was stayed until June 13 to allow the Trump administration time to appeal, which they promptly did.
Legal Justification for Troop Deployment
The appeals court’s unanimous decision stated that Trump’s “failure to issue the federalization order directly ‘through’ the Governor of California does not limit his otherwise lawful authority to call up the National Guard.”
Reactions to the Court’s Decision
Trump’s Response
Following the ruling, Trump commented on social media, emphasizing the broader implications for national security. “This is much bigger than Gavin [Newsom], because all over the United States, if our Cities, and our people, need protection, we are the ones to give it to them should State and Local Police be unable, for whatever reason, to get the job done,” he wrote. He also commended the court, adding: “America is proud of you tonight!”
Limitations on Presidential Power
While the 38-page ruling sided with the administration, the judges also noted disagreement with the president regarding the extent of executive power, stipulating that the decision to utilize the National Guard was not “completely insulated from judicial review.”
Newsom’s Rebuttal
Newsom responded to the judgment, asserting that the court “rightly rejected Trump’s claim that he can do whatever he wants with the National Guard and not have to explain himself to a court.” He further added on X, “We will not let this authoritarian use of military soldiers against citizens go unchecked. Donald Trump is not a king and not above the law.”
Impact and Context of the National Guard Deployment
Troop Levels and Purpose
The court’s decision permits the ongoing deployment of approximately 4,000 troops to Los Angeles. The Trump administration maintained that these forces were essential for protecting federal immigration agents and federal property during raids.
Rationale for Federal Intervention
The administration claimed it assumed control of California’s National Guard to restore order and protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducting operations across Los Angeles, targeting individuals believed to be in the country unlawfully.
Historical Context
The deployment also involved 700 Marines to the city, over Newsom’s objections. Historically, the last time a president deployed the National Guard without a governor’s consent was during the civil rights era more than half a century ago.