California Governor Sues Trump Over Unauthorized Los Angeles National Guard Deployment

President Donald Trump has deployed thousands of National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles in response to protests against immigration raids, a move that has escalated tensions and triggered legal challenges from California Governor Gavin Newsom. Newsom has sued the Trump administration, arguing that the unilateral federalization of the National Guard violates both statutory law and the Constitution, specifically infringing upon state sovereignty under the 10th Amendment. Critics, including retired General Barry McCaffrey, view the deployment as political theater and authoritarian overreach, noting the military presence is not needed for riot control and that Trump is governing by executive decree. While the National Guard has been described as underprepared and symbolic, the increased militarization has intensified protests and provoked a surge of state and local law enforcement activity. Congressional Republicans broadly support Trump’s approach, signaling they will allow the National Guard’s extended presence in California to continue until order is restored, framing it as necessary due to ongoing unrest. This conflict highlights a deep partisan divide, with the president and Republicans backing aggressive immigration enforcement and military action, while California's Democratic leadership condemns the tactics as unconstitutional and authoritarian.