President Donald Trump has deployed approximately 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles, a move made over the direct objections of California Governor Gavin Newsom.
The federalization of these troops marks a significant power struggle between the White House and the Democratic-led state, raising critical questions about the president’s authority to deploy military forces on U.S. soil.
President Trump stated that the deployment was necessary to “address the lawlessness” in California, in response to violent immigration demonstrations.
READ: White House Rips ABC, Terry Moran Over Deleted “Unhinged” Miller Attack
However, Governor Newsom swiftly condemned the action, calling it “purposely inflammatory and [it] will only escalate tensions,” highlighting a deep divide in how the two leaders view the appropriate response to the protests.
This is not the first instance of President Trump activating the National Guard to quell domestic unrest. In 2020, in the wake of widespread demonstrations following the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers, Trump requested that governors in several states send their National Guard troops to Washington, D.C.
While many governors complied, those who refused were permitted to keep their troops within their respective states.
The current situation, however, differs fundamentally. In this instance, President Trump has acted in direct opposition to Governor Newsom, who, under normal circumstances, would retain command and control over California’s National Guard.
READ: Hegseth Warns: Marines On “High Alert” For LA Riots After National Guard Deployment
The legal basis for the president’s action appears to hinge on a federal law that allows for the federalization of National Guard troops under specific circumstances, rather than the more commonly cited 18th-century Insurrection Act.
The National Guard operates as a unique “hybrid entity,” serving both state and federal interests. Typically, these troops function under state command and are funded by the state.
While their state can assign them to federal missions, they usually remain under state command, even when receiving federal funding. This latest move by President Trump bypasses the usual state-level authority, asserting federal control over a state’s military assets against the will of its governor.
READ :Federal Appeals Court In Georgia Upholds Block On Florida Illegal Immigration Law
The vagueness of existing laws concerning the deployment of federal military forces for civilian law enforcement duties, especially against U.S. citizens outside of declared emergencies, adds complexity to the situation.
This federalization of a state’s National Guard over a governor’s refusal sets a new precedent and is likely to ignite further legal and political debate. As protests continue in Los Angeles, all eyes will be on the unfolding power struggle and its implications for federal-state relations and civil liberties.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
