Jonathan Turley, a constitutional law professor at George Washington University and a regular Fox News contributor, joined Fox & Friends on Thursday to discuss the legal and political ramifications of President Donald Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard to Los Angeles following the recent anti-ICE riots. Turley, known for his conservative legal analysis, examined whether the deployment of federal forces to a state capital is constitutionally permissible, noting that the U.S. Constitution grants states primary authority over their National Guard units, with federal control typically reserved for times of war.
Trump’s administration had justified the deployment as a necessary measure to ensure public safety during the escalating unrest, which followed the killing of George Floyd and subsequent protests across the country. Critics, including many Democrats, argued that the move could be perceived as an overreach of executive power and a potential escalation of tensions. Turley, however, suggested that the president’s actions were within his legal authority, citing past precedents where federal forces have been deployed to quell civil disturbances. He also noted that the situation in Los Angeles was particularly complex, given the presence of multiple law enforcement agencies and the potential for further violence.
Additionally, Turley addressed the status of Abrego Garcia, a prominent activist and former Los Angeles County sheriff who had been detained during the protests. Garcia’s return to the state was a topic of speculation, with some suggesting that his release was imminent. Turley speculated that Garcia’s continued detention could have significant implications for the ongoing civil unrest, as his presence was seen as a rallying point for protesters. The discussion on Fox & Friends highlighted the broader implications of Trump’s decisions on both the legal landscape and the political climate in California, reflecting the deepening divide between the executive and legislative branches of government.
As the situation in Los Angeles continues to evolve, legal experts and political analysts are closely watching the outcomes of these developments. The deployment of the National Guard and the handling of activists like Abrego Garcia are likely to remain key points of contention in the ongoing debate over federal versus state authority and the use of force in managing civil unrest.