9th Circuit Allows Federal Oregon National Guard Deployment Pending Appeal

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has granted a stay pending appeal, allowing the Trump administration to maintain federal control over and potentially deploy the Oregon National Guard despite opposition from Oregon state officials. This ruling overturned previous temporary restraining orders that had blocked the deployment, with the court majority finding that President Trump lawfully exercised his authority under 10 U.S.C. § 12406(3) to federalize the Guard when regular forces were deemed insufficient to enforce laws. The deployment followed the president's characterization of Portland as "war ravaged" and "under siege" by domestic terrorists, a portrayal disputed by local officials including Oregon Governor Tina Kotek. The ruling is part of a broader pattern of the Trump administration deploying National Guard troops to cities like Los Angeles, Washington D.C., and Chicago to protect federal agents and reduce crime. However, dissenting Judge Susan Graber highlighted ongoing legal challenges, noting that a second temporary restraining order remains in effect, preventing immediate troop deployment and urging the appellate court to reconsider the ruling swiftly. The legal battle continues as the state and city of Portland seek to block the deployment, emphasizing concerns over presidential overreach.