Federal Judge Rejects California's Urgent Request to Stop Troop Deployment in Los Angeles
A federal judge has denied California’s emergency motion to prevent the Trump administration from deploying Marines and National Guard troops in Los Angeles amid rising protests. This ruling comes as a significant win for President Trump, who ordered the military presence to maintain law and order during demonstrations linked to immigration enforcement.
Judge Schedules Hearing But Declines Immediate Restraining Order
Senior US District Judge Charles R. Breyer refused to grant an immediate restraining order requested by Governor Gavin Newsom. The judge has scheduled a hearing for Thursday to further examine California’s plea for a temporary halt on troop use within the state.
Governor Newsom had argued that President Trump was behaving like a tyrant by using the military against American citizens, warning that such actions threaten the core of democracy. He urged the court to take swift action to block the federal government's deployment plans.
“He is threatening the very core of our democracy. I’m asking the court to immediately block these unlawful actions.”
Troop Deployment Details and Context
Currently, about 700 Marines from the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, stationed at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, have arrived in Los Angeles awaiting deployment. They are set to support federal buildings and law enforcement personnel amidst ongoing anti-immigration protests.
These Marines join approximately 4,000 National Guard troops activated over the weekend by President Trump, despite the lack of consent from Governor Newsom. Officials reported around 2,100 National Guard members were already present in the Greater Los Angeles area as of Tuesday.
President Trump Defends Military Action
In response to criticism, President Trump took to his social platform to justify the troop deployment, stating:
“If I didn’t ‘SEND IN THE TROOPS’ to Los Angeles the last three nights, that once beautiful and great City would be burning to the ground right now, much like 25,000 houses burned to the ground in LA due to an incompetent Governor and Mayor.”
This deployment marks the first time in over 30 years that Marines have been mobilized domestically to manage civil unrest, underscoring the high stakes around the escalating protests.
Legal Battle Over Military Enforcement Powers
Governor Newsom’s court filing sought to prevent the federal government from using Marines and federalized National Guard troops to enforce immigration and other civil laws on city streets. However, the Trump administration dismissed the suit as “legally meritless,” setting the stage for a contentious legal showdown.
The Thursday hearing will be pivotal in deciding whether California can successfully block the federal government’s troop deployment or whether President Trump maintains authority to use military resources in this manner across the state.
Stay informed with ongoing updates on this developing story.
