California Challenges Trump National Guard Deployment, Citing Legal Violations

California Governor Gavin Newsom is engaged in a legal battle against President Donald Trump's deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles, challenging its legality under the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts military involvement in civilian law enforcement. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of Trump, allowing him to maintain control over the National Guard, citing his interest in protecting federal employees amid protests following immigration raids. However, California argues that the court should determine the permissible duration of the deployment and whether the troops have been used unlawfully in civilian roles. Newsom also criticizes the deployment for diverting National Guard resources from critical wildfire prevention efforts, thereby increasing California's vulnerability during peak fire season. Both sides have filed court briefs debating the scope of presidential authority to federalize the National Guard without state consent and whether the federal troops' actions violate the Posse Comitatus Act. The ongoing legal proceedings, including potential depositions of federal officials, will clarify the balance of power between state and federal control of the National Guard and address concerns about the appropriate use of military forces on American streets.