US court grants Trump authority over National Guard in Los Angeles

Friday 20 June 2025 - 08:01

By: Zahouani Ilham

US court grants Trump authority over National Guard in Los Angeles

A US federal appeals court has ruled that Donald Trump acted within his authority when he ordered the deployment of 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles in response to protests sparked by federal immigration raids. Despite opposition from California Governor Gavin Newsom and local officials, the court affirmed that the president’s directive was lawful.

The unanimous decision from the three-judge panel stated that Trump had the right to federalize the National Guard for 60 days to safeguard federal personnel and property. The court emphasized that although Trump did not issue the order through the governor, his authority to mobilize the National Guard was not limited.

In his reaction, Trump hailed the decision as a “BIG WIN,” asserting his role in protecting citizens when local law enforcement is unable to do so. “All over the United States, if our cities and our people need protection, we are the ones to provide it,” he wrote on social media.

Governor Newsom criticized the ruling, arguing that Trump is “not a king and not above the law.” He underscored that the court did not accept the idea that the president’s military actions are immune from judicial oversight. “We will not let this authoritarian use of military soldiers against citizens go unchecked,” he stated.

The court’s decision could be challenged further. California has the option to request a rehearing or take the case to the US Supreme Court.

The legal dispute comes amid escalating immigration tensions in Los Angeles, a focal point of Trump’s nationwide crackdown. Federal raids have targeted undocumented workers in various sectors, including garment factories and car washes. Though largely peaceful, the protests have occasionally turned violent, involving vandalism, looting, and confrontations with police.

Last week, a lower court had ruled the deployment unlawful and directed Trump to return control of the National Guard to Governor Newsom. Nevertheless, the appeals court ruling overturns that decision, marking the first time since 1965 that a president has activated the National Guard against a governor’s will.

Two judges on the appellate panel were appointed by Trump, and the third by Joe Biden.