Fact Check: 9th Circuit Court Rules Trump Likely Acted Lawfully in Federalizing California Guardsmen
What We Know
On June 19, 2025, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled that President Donald Trump likely acted within his legal authority when he federalized California's National Guard troops. This decision came in response to a challenge from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who argued that Trump's actions were unlawful. The court found that the conditions in Los Angeles justified the federalization of the National Guard to enforce federal immigration laws, as stated in their unanimous ruling, which emphasized that the president's determination warranted judicial deference (source-1, source-3).
The Ninth Circuit's ruling overturned a previous decision by a lower court, which had determined that the protests in Los Angeles did not meet the threshold for federal intervention. The appellate judges noted that the violent actions of some protesters had hindered immigration enforcement, thus supporting Trump's decision to invoke federal authority (source-2, source-4).
Analysis
The Ninth Circuit's ruling is significant as it underscores the balance of power between state and federal authorities, particularly in matters of national security and law enforcement. The court's decision to uphold Trump's federalization of the National Guard reflects a legal interpretation that grants the president considerable discretion in deploying military resources in response to perceived threats to federal law enforcement (source-6).
The ruling has been characterized as a clear affirmation of presidential authority, although it does not grant unchecked power. The court explicitly stated that while they support the president's actions, they also recognize the need for judicial oversight to prevent potential abuses of power. This nuanced position indicates that while the court found Trump's actions likely lawful, it did not endorse a blanket immunity from judicial review (source-8).
The reliability of the sources reporting on this ruling is generally high, with major news outlets and official court documents providing detailed accounts of the proceedings and the legal rationale behind the decision. However, it is essential to consider the political context surrounding the case, as it involves a contentious issue of federal versus state authority, which can influence interpretations and public perceptions (source-4, source-6).
Conclusion
The claim that the 9th Circuit Court ruled Trump likely acted lawfully in federalizing California guardsmen is True. The court's unanimous decision indicates that the president's actions were within the scope of his authority, particularly in light of the circumstances in Los Angeles that warranted federal intervention. The ruling reflects a careful consideration of the balance of powers and the need for judicial oversight, affirming that while the president has significant authority, it is not absolute.
Sources
- PDF For Publication Filed
- US court lets Trump keep control of California National Guard now
- Appeals Court Lets Trump Keep Control of California National Guard in LA
- Trump can keep National Guard in Los Angeles, appeals court rules
- Trump likely acted lawfully in LA Guard order, 9th Circuit rules
- Trump allowed to keep control of National Guard troops deployed to Los Angeles by appeals court
