Trump Prevails in Dispute With Newsom Over National Guard Control

In a landmark decision with national implications, President Donald Trump scored a major legal win over California Governor Gavin Newsom on Thursday, securing control of National Guard troops deployed in Los Angeles.

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously ruled in favor of Trump, staying a lower court’s attempt to return control of the troops to Newsom. The decision marks the first time since 1965 that a president has successfully deployed the National Guard without a governor’s permission and it reaffirms the commander-in-chief’s authority to act when state leaders fail to maintain law and order.

The court’s decision stated clearly “We conclude that it is likely that the President lawfully exercised his statutory authority under § 12406(3), which authorizes federalization of the National Guard when the President is unable with the regular forces to execute the laws of the United States.”

• Trump retains control of National Guard units deployed to combat chaos in Los Angeles.

• The court rejected Newsom’s arguments, saying the president’s authority under federal law likely applies.

• While the president did not notify Newsom as required by law, the court affirmed the governor lacks veto power over the deployment.

The ruling delivers a stinging rebuke to Newsom, whose administration attempted to block the Guard deployment during a surge of violence and unrest triggered by nationwide protests and immigration enforcement actions.

Trump celebrated the ruling in a Truth Social post: “BIG WIN in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals… This is a Great Decision for our Country, and we will continue to protect and defend Law abiding Americans.”

The court did note that while presidential decisions aren’t beyond judicial scrutiny, Trump’s actions fell well within his constitutional and statutory powers. The message was clear: when cities are in crisis, the federal government has the right and the duty to act.

This ruling not only secures the National Guard’s role in restoring order in California, but also sets a precedent for future emergencies where Democrat governors refuse to act.

Trump promised law and order. And once again, he’s delivering.

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