Fact Check: California's Governor Newsom suffers major legal defeat over National Guard control.

Fact Check: California's Governor Newsom Suffers Major Legal Defeat Over National Guard Control

What We Know

The claim that California Governor Gavin Newsom has suffered a major legal defeat regarding control of the National Guard stems from a recent court ruling. On June 19, 2025, a California appeals court ruled that President Trump could maintain control over California National Guard troops deployed in Los Angeles, effectively blocking Governor Newsom's efforts to regain oversight of these forces (NPR). This ruling came after Newsom's administration sought to challenge what they termed the "illegal militarization" of the area by the Trump administration, which involved deploying thousands of National Guard soldiers and U.S. Marines to Los Angeles (California Governor).

The legal battle has been characterized by significant public and political discourse, with military leaders and veteran groups expressing concerns about the implications of using military forces for domestic policing (Military Leaders to Trump). Newsom's administration has vowed to continue fighting this ruling, asserting that the control of the National Guard should remain with the state to ensure effective disaster response and public safety (California Governor).

Analysis

The ruling by the appeals court represents a significant setback for Governor Newsom, as it allows the federal government to maintain control over the National Guard in a context that many see as politically charged. The decision has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters of Newsom argue that the militarization of local law enforcement undermines the state's ability to manage emergencies effectively and poses risks to civil liberties (Military Leaders to Trump). Critics, however, may view the federal control as necessary for maintaining order in a volatile environment.

The sources used in this analysis vary in reliability. The California Governor's official website provides direct statements from the administration, which can be considered credible but may also reflect a partisan perspective (California Governor). NPR, as a well-established news organization, offers a more neutral account of the court's ruling and its implications, making it a reliable source for understanding the legal context (NPR). The military leaders' statements also add weight to the argument against the militarization of domestic policing, as they come from individuals with significant experience and authority in military matters (Military Leaders to Trump).

However, the overall context of the claim suggests that while there has been a legal ruling against Newsom, the term "major defeat" may be subjective. The ongoing legal battle indicates that the situation is still evolving, and further developments could alter the current narrative.

Conclusion

Needs Research. The claim that Governor Newsom has suffered a major legal defeat is partially accurate, as a court ruling did favor federal control over the National Guard. However, the situation is complex and ongoing, with Newsom's administration continuing to challenge this ruling. The implications of the ruling are significant and warrant further investigation into both the legal proceedings and the broader political context surrounding the use of military forces in domestic situations.

Fact Check: California's Governor Newsom suffers major legal defeat over National Guard control.