9th Circuit Halts Immediate Return of California National Guard Control to State
A U.S. federal judge ruled Thursday that President Donald Trump acted illegally by deploying the California National Guard during ICE-related riots in Los Angeles, mandating the return of control to state authorities. The decision, issued by U.S. District Judge Charles R. Brey, marked a significant legal development, emphasizing that federalism is non-negotiable and that the president cannot unilaterally override state sovereignty. The ruling followed a lawsuit filed by Governor Gavin Newsom, who challenged Trump’s actions as a violation of constitutional principles and statutory limits. Judge Breyer ordered the return of control ‘forthwith,’ stating that Trump’s deployment had exceeded his authority and was unconstitutional. However, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals granted a temporary stay, delaying the implementation of the order until June 13, 2025, to allow for a legal appeal.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta hailed the ruling as ‘an important step forward’ in upholding state sovereignty and the rule of law. Bonta reiterated that the Trump administration’s federalization of the National Guard was unconstitutional and posed risks to both state and federal interests. He underscored that the situation in Los Angeles did not justify a military response, citing that the federal government could still enforce its laws without resorting to the military. Bonta also emphasized the support of retired military officials, who warned that such deployments threaten vital national security and disaster relief operations. The attorney general criticized Trump’s repeated disregard for legal and constitutional norms, asserting that the administration’s actions endanger the United States’ democratic foundations.
In contrast, the Trump administration has called the ruling ‘unprecedented’ and warned that it puts federal officials at risk. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated that the court’s decision undermines the president’s role as Commander in Chief and that the National Guard deployment was a lawful necessity to protect federal assets. She emphasized that the administration would appeal the ruling, confident of a ‘ultimate victory’ on the issue. The temporary stay allows the government a narrow window to respond to the court’s order, with deadlines set for a response by June 15 and a hearing scheduled for June 17. The case now moves to the appellate level, where the legal battle over presidential authority and state sovereignty will continue to unfold.