DOJ says Trump's power to deploy National Guard in LA is 'absolute' in appeals court hearing

During a recent federal court hearing, judges appeared receptive to the Trump administration's defense of the deployment of National Guard troops in California. The DOJ claimed that President Trump exercised lawful executive authority by sending troops to Los Angeles to protect federal property amid protests regarding immigration enforcement. In contrast, California's representatives argued that the president's deployment violated state law by failing to inform Governor Gavin Newsom. The panel of judges raised questions about the limits of presidential power, challenging the idea that such military orders could be entirely unreviewable. Additionally, California officials highlighted the detrimental effects of the National Guard's absence on wildfire prevention efforts during a critical period for the state.

Governor Newsom criticized the militarization of Los Angeles, asserting that it detracts from essential firefighting resources. The court previously issued a temporary order favoring California, but the appellate judges later blocked this ruling pending further review. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the balance of military and civilian authority in state matters.