Trump-Nominated Judge Blocks Federal Deployment of National Guard in Oregon
U.S. District Judge Karin J. Immergut, a Trump-nominated federal judge, has issued a ruling that blocks the President’s authority to deploy National Guard troops in Oregon. The court order, which has been met with strong criticism from the White House, is based on the judge’s assertion that the President’s determination lacks legal basis. This marks the second time Immergut has issued a temporary restraining order to halt the federal deployment of National Guard units in the state.
Immergut, confirmed by the Senate in 2019, has a notable legal background, including her role in the investigation of the Bill Clinton White House scandal. She was hired by Ken Starr to assist in the inquiry into allegations of perjury and obstruction of justice related to the Monica Lewinsky affair. Her involvement in the Clinton probe underscores her experience in handling high-stakes legal matters.
The White House has strongly criticized the court’s authority, with Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller declaring that the judge has ‘no conceivable authority’ to restrict the President from deploying National Guard units. The administration argues that the President’s decision to federalize National Guard members is necessary for national security, particularly amid ongoing unrest in Portland. However, Immergut maintains that the deployment requires proper legal justification, leading to the temporary injunction against the military action.
The legal battle highlights a growing tension between executive authority and judicial oversight. The administration contends that the President’s decision to federalize troops is a necessary measure to protect federal assets and ensure public safety, especially in light of recent unrest in the city. Immergut, however, asserts that the President’s actions did not meet the required legal standards and that the deployment was not authorized under existing statutes. This legal challenge raises broader questions about the limits of executive power and the role of the judiciary in national emergencies.