Fact Check: "Trump's deployment of federal troops is a step toward authoritarianism."
What We Know
In June 2025, President Donald Trump deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles amid protests against federal immigration raids. This action was controversial and sparked legal challenges, particularly from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who argued that Trump acted without the necessary state consent, marking the first such deployment since 1965 without a governor's approval (source-1, source-2). An appeals court ultimately ruled that Trump likely acted within his legal authority to federalize the National Guard, citing significant unrest and violence during the protests (source-2).
Experts have expressed concern that Trump's actions reflect authoritarian tendencies. Newsom described the deployment as dictatorial, stating, "Democracy is under assault right before our eyes" (source-3). Political scientists have drawn parallels between Trump's behavior and that of authoritarian leaders, suggesting that his disregard for established legal protocols and local governance undermines democratic norms (source-3, source-5).
Analysis
The claim that Trump's deployment of federal troops represents a step toward authoritarianism is supported by several factors. Firstly, the legal framework surrounding the deployment was contested. While the appeals court found that Trump likely had the authority to act, the initial ruling by U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer indicated that the protests did not meet the threshold of "rebellion" necessary for such federal action (source-2). This raises questions about the justification for the deployment.
Furthermore, experts have noted that Trump's actions could be seen as an attempt to consolidate power and suppress dissent. Retired Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges criticized the deployment as unnecessary and indicative of a strategy to project strength against American citizens rather than foreign adversaries (source-3). The perception that the military is being politicized is alarming, as it could undermine the military's role as a neutral entity in a democratic society (source-3).
However, it is essential to consider the context and motivations behind the deployment. Trump's administration argued that the troops were necessary to restore order following violent protests, which included attacks on federal officers and property (source-2). This perspective suggests that the deployment was framed as a response to a legitimate security concern, complicating the narrative of authoritarianism.
Conclusion
The claim that Trump's deployment of federal troops is a step toward authoritarianism is Partially True. While there are valid concerns regarding the legality and implications of his actions, particularly in bypassing state authority and the potential for militarization of domestic issues, the justification provided by the Trump administration regarding public safety cannot be entirely dismissed. The situation reflects a complex interplay between security needs and the preservation of democratic norms, highlighting the ongoing tensions in American governance.
Sources
- Governor Newsom suing President Trump and Department of Defense for illegal takeover of CalGuard unit. California Governor's Office
- Trump allowed to keep control of National Guard troops deployed to Los Angeles. AP News
- Has Trump Brought Authoritarianism to the U.S.? Foreign Policy
- Trump allowed to keep control of National Guard troops. PBS NewsHour
- Op-Ed: Newsom Called It Deranged—He’s Right. This Is the New Authoritarianism. Davis Vanguard
- Unpacking Trump's Order Authorizing Domestic Deployment of Military. Brennan Center
- Trump Sends In National Guard — This Is How "Authoritarian Drift" Catches Fire. Worldcrunch
- California says Trump's deployment of National Guard violates state sovereignty. Politico
