UPDATES San Francisco federal trial over Trump's National Guard deployment to LA

A federal court in San Francisco examined the legality of the Trump administration's deployment of approximately 4,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles, initiated after protests against immigration raids. Governor Gavin Newsom contended the deployment violated the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits military actions in civilian law enforcement. U. S. District Judge Charles Breyer presided over the case, conducting a bench trial without a jury, and emphasized the need for clarity regarding the ongoing presence of the troops.

The Department of Justice argued the Guard's role was protective, but Breyer questioned the rationale behind their continued deployment after the initial protests subsided. California's legal team labeled the action as an unprecedented overreach, asserting that it disregards the principles of federalism. The trial could set a crucial precedent for future military deployments in California and potentially other states. Breyer indicated he would issue a ruling soon, with appeals likely from either side. The outcome may redefine the balance of power between state and federal authorities regarding military involvement in local matters.