California Takes Legal Action Against Trump Over Military Deployment
In an unprecedented legal battle, California has filed a lawsuit against former President Donald Trump for deploying 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles without Governor Gavin Newsom’s consent. The dispute has sharply intensified tensions between the Democratic-led state and the federal government.
Governor Newsom Condemns Deployment as 'Un-American'
Governor Newsom publicly denounced Trump’s move, branding it as a “dictatorial” and “un-American” action. He expressed outrage over the use of military forces on California soil, especially the deployment of active-duty Marines amid ongoing protests.
"US Marines have honorably served in defense of democracy worldwide," Newsom stated. "They should not be sent here to confront fellow Americans to satisfy the delusions of a dictatorial President."
The Legal Grounds: Overstepping Authority?
The lawsuit argues that Trump bypassed legal limits by invoking a law traditionally reserved for foreign invasions or actual rebellions. California Attorney General Rob Bonta sharply criticized the move, stating, "There is no invasion. There is no rebellion. The President is creating chaos for political gain."
California’s claim centers on the assertion that the President violated the governor’s constitutional authority over the state's National Guard units, highlighting a serious federal-state power dispute.
Military Presence Expands Amid Protests
Following days of protests sparked by immigration raids, the federal government ramped up its military response. Approximately 700 active-duty Marines were sent to Los Angeles, joining thousands of National Guard soldiers already on the streets.
The total National Guard force in the city is expected to reach 2,000 by midweek. Despite this escalation, Pentagon officials have deliberately refrained from invoking the Insurrection Act, which would authorize the military to take over law enforcement — signaling a careful balancing act amid rising unrest.
What’s Next in the Standoff?
The White House initially remained silent following the lawsuit’s announcement. However, Trump publicly defended his decision shortly after, warning that protests opposing immigration actions would face tougher crackdowns.
This legal challenge marks a significant showdown over the limits of federal power and state sovereignty, with California standing firmly against what it views as an improper military intrusion into domestic affairs.
