Appeals Court Delivers Blow to California’s Lawsuit

President Trump at Fort Bragg

The deployment of National Guard troops in Los Angeles to control protests against ICE has sparked legal pushback. As announced by Gov. Gavin Newsom, California filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump and the U.S. Department of Defense, claiming the move violates state authority and oversteps legal bounds. The state has won the challenge, but an appeals court has halted the removal of troops.

Military vehicles move into downtown LA

The lawsuit added, “This is also the first time since 1965—when President Johnson sent troops to Alabama to protect civil rights demonstrators, under different federal authority—that a president has activated a State’s National Guard without a request from the State’s Governor.”

California Gov. Gavin holds a press conference

Trump approved the National Guard deployment despite Newsom’s objections, as ICE protests intensified.

LAPD enforces a curfew in Los Angeles

Newsom said, “Donald Trump is creating fear and terror by failing to adhere to the U.S. Constitution and overstepping his authority.” The lawsuit claims Trump misused a rarely invoked statute to federalize the National Guard, arguing such orders should come from governors.

Fans display signs in support of immigrants at BMO Stadium

Newsom maintains that the protests do not meet the threshold for insurrection, downplaying reported violence. Newsom said, “This is beyond incompetence — this is him intentionally causing chaos, terrorizing communities, and endangering the principles of our great democracy.” He added, “It is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism.”

Remaining people after ICE raids a Home Depot Parking lot

Los Angeles now has a heavy troop presence during mostly peaceful protests. Newsom called the deployment illegal and unjustified, stressing that local authorities did not request federal military support.

Governor Gavin Newsom talks to fifth-graders

Newsom said, “The President of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting Governor. This is a day I hoped I would never see in America.”

People take cover as police fire rubber bullets to disperse protesters

Newsom stated, “This isn’t about public safety. It’s about stroking a dangerous President’s ego.” and called it “a blatant abuse of power.” He said, “U.S. Marines serve a valuable purpose for this country — defending democracy. They are not political pawns.”

People protest ICE after a high school student is arrested

Immigration raid protests have spread across U.S. cities, but none rival the scale of those in Los Angeles. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott reported multiple arrests in his state, emphasizing the line between lawful protest and violence.

Texas Governor Greg Abbot in Gregory, TX

Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX) said, “Peaceful protesting is legal.” Abbott added, “But once you cross the line, you will be arrested.”

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis speaks during a press conference

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said, “The minute you cross into attacking law enforcement, any type of rioting, any type of vandalism, looting, just be prepared to have the law come down on you.” He added, “And we will make an example of you, you can guarantee it.”

Sarah Bennett covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.