Fact Check: Trump claims court ruling is a 'BIG WIN' for federal protection of cities

Fact Check: Trump Claims Court Ruling is a 'BIG WIN' for Federal Protection of Cities

What We Know

On June 20, 2025, a federal appeals court in San Francisco ruled that President Donald Trump could retain control over the California National Guard in Los Angeles. This decision came amid ongoing protests against his administration's immigration policies. The court's unanimous ruling indicated that Trump had likely acted within his authority to deploy the National Guard, despite not consulting California Governor Gavin Newsom, who opposed the deployment. The court stated that there was sufficient rationale for the president's actions, particularly citing instances where protesters allegedly interfered with federal law enforcement duties related to deportations (Washington Post source-1).

Following the ruling, Trump took to social media, declaring it a “BIG WIN” and suggesting that it would set a precedent for similar deployments across the country if local law enforcement was deemed unable to maintain order (DW source-3).

Analysis

The court's decision reflects a complex legal landscape regarding the president's authority to deploy National Guard troops without state consultation. While the judges acknowledged that the president's powers are not unlimited, they found that the rationale provided by Trump's administration for the deployment was defensible. The ruling emphasized that the president's actions were likely lawful under the circumstances, particularly given evidence of violent protests (France 24 source-7).

Critics, including Governor Newsom, argued that Trump's actions were authoritarian and unprecedented, as no previous president had deployed a state's National Guard against the governor's wishes. Newsom highlighted that the ruling did not grant Trump unchecked power, stating, "Donald Trump is not a king and not above the law" (Newsweek source-5).

The sources used in this analysis are credible, with the Washington Post and DW being reputable news organizations that provide thorough reporting on legal and political matters. The legal context surrounding the deployment of the National Guard is complex, and the court's decision reflects a balance between federal authority and state rights.

Conclusion

The claim that Trump described the court ruling as a "BIG WIN" for federal protection of cities is True. The appeals court's decision allowed him to maintain control over the National Guard in Los Angeles, which he interpreted as a victory for his administration's approach to law enforcement and public safety. The ruling not only affirmed his authority but also opened the door for similar actions in other cities, aligning with Trump's narrative of federal intervention when local authorities are perceived as ineffective.

Fact Check: Trump claims court ruling is a 'BIG WIN' for federal protection of cities