Fact Check: 9th Circuit Court Rules Trump Likely Acted Lawfully in Federalizing California Troops
What We Know
On June 19, 2025, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling that President Donald Trump likely acted within his legal authority when he federalized California's National Guard troops in response to immigration protests in Los Angeles. The court's unanimous decision overturned a lower court's order that had required Trump to return control of the troops to California Governor Gavin Newsom. The panel of judges concluded that the conditions in Los Angeles warranted Trump's decision to invoke federal control, stating that the president's actions were likely justified under the relevant federal statutes (New York Times, Reuters).
The ruling emphasized that the violent actions of some protesters had hindered immigration enforcement, which supported the federalization of the National Guard. The court also addressed procedural concerns regarding the method by which the federal order was issued, ultimately deciding that any potential violations did not justify stripping Trump of control over the troops (Washington Post, CBS News).
Analysis
The ruling from the 9th Circuit is significant as it reflects a legal interpretation of the president's authority to federalize state National Guard units under specific circumstances. The judges noted that the president's determination should be afforded deference, particularly in matters involving national security and immigration enforcement (Sacramento Bee, Los Angeles Times).
Critically, the court's decision was unanimous, which adds weight to its conclusions. However, it is important to consider the political context: two of the judges were appointed by Trump, which may introduce a perception of bias, although the ruling itself was based on legal reasoning rather than political affiliation (New York Times).
The dissenting opinion from Governor Newsom highlighted concerns about the implications of federalizing the National Guard, arguing that it undermines state authority and sets a concerning precedent for executive power (Reuters). This ongoing legal battle illustrates the tension between state and federal powers, particularly in the context of immigration policy and law enforcement.
Conclusion
The claim that the 9th Circuit Court ruled Trump likely acted lawfully in federalizing California troops is True. The court's unanimous decision supports the assertion that Trump's actions were within his authority under federal law, particularly given the circumstances surrounding the protests in Los Angeles. The ruling reflects a legal framework that allows for federal intervention in state matters under specific conditions, particularly related to national security and law enforcement.
Sources
- Filed
- Appeals Court Lets Trump Keep Control of California National Guard in L ...
- US court lets Trump keep control of California National ...
- Trump can keep National Guard in Los Angeles, appeals ...
- Appeals court temporarily blocks judge's ruling to return control of ...
- Appeals court extends order allowing Trump to deploy National Guard to ...
- Trump likely acted lawfully in LA Guard order, 9th Circuit rules ...
- 9th Circuit sides with Trump administration on L.A. troop deployment ...
