Federal Judge Blocks Trump's Deployment of National Guard in Los Angeles

June 12, 2025 - A federal judge has temporarily halted President Donald Trump's deployment of National Guard troops in Los Angeles, ruling that the mobilization violated federal law and state sovereignty. The decision marks a significant legal setback for the administration, which had justified the deployment as necessary to quell protests over immigration enforcement.

The Court's Ruling

U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer ruled that Trump exceeded his statutory authority and violated the Tenth Amendment, which protects states' rights. The judge ordered the administration to return control of the California National Guard to Governor Gavin Newsom by noon on Friday.

Breyer rejected the administration's argument that the protests constituted a rebellion, stating that demonstrations-even those involving sporadic violence-fall far short of an insurrection. He emphasized that the First Amendment protects the right to protest, and federal intervention should not override state authority without clear justification. Breyer was appointed by President William J. Clinton (D).

California's Legal Challenge

Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit arguing that Trump's deployment was unconstitutional and undermined state control over its National Guard. The lawsuit contended that federal law requires a governor's consent before the president can mobilize state troops for domestic law enforcement.

Newsom called the deployment "an assault on democracy", warning that it set a dangerous precedent for federal intervention in state affairs.

The Administration's Response

The Trump administration immediately appealed the ruling to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, seeking to overturn the decision before the deadline. Justice Department attorneys argued that the president has broad authority to deploy troops without state approval when federal law enforcement is insufficient.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth refused to commit to following the court's order during a congressional hearing, stating that "local judges should not determine national security policy".

Impact on Los Angeles and National Politics

The ruling has intensified the debate over executive power, state sovereignty, and military involvement in domestic affairs. While the protests in Los Angeles have led to some clashes with law enforcement, critics argue that deploying troops escalates tensions rather than restoring order.

The legal battle over Trump's deployment could set a precedent for future federal interventions in state matters, particularly regarding the use of military forces in civilian settings.