BREAKING: The Trump administration has just announced it will no longer oppose a court order returning control of National Guard troops in Los Angeles to California Governor Gavin Newsom. This significant development comes after a federal judge ruled earlier this month for the return of approximately 300 California National Guard troops to state control, potentially ending a controversial deployment that began on June 7, 2023.
In a filing with the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday, government attorneys confirmed they are withdrawing their request to maintain federal authority over the troops while the appeal is pending. This abrupt shift in stance marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battle surrounding the administration’s immigration enforcement tactics.
The deployment of the National Guard was initially ordered by Trump following significant protests against federal immigration raids, which some claimed escalated into violence. The troops were sent to protect federal facilities, but many local officials, including Newsom, argued that their presence was unnecessary and violated constitutional rights. California officials filed suit against the administration, asserting that the federal government could not unilaterally control state National Guard units without proper justification.
As tensions mounted, the Department of Justice sought to keep the troops federally controlled, citing concerns for the safety of federal employees. However, a federal judge denied part of that request, allowing for the gradual withdrawal of troops from Los Angeles. The latest court filing reveals that the DOJ no longer opposes lifting the administrative stay, a move that effectively restores authority over the troops to the state.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta reacted swiftly, stating, “For more than five months, the Trump administration has held California National Guard troops hostage as part of its political games. This is a good day for our democracy and the strength of the rule of law.” His remarks underscore the ongoing tensions between state and federal powers regarding National Guard deployment.
The troops had been primarily tasked with guarding federal buildings and had not directly engaged in controlling protests, which were primarily managed by local law enforcement agencies. Critics have noted that the deployment did little to address the root causes of the protests, which were largely centered around immigration policies.
With this latest legal reversal, the focus now shifts to how California will manage the transition of the troops back to state control. Observers are keenly watching for further developments, particularly as the state prepares for upcoming events, including the 2028 Olympic Games and next year’s World Cup.
This breaking news highlights the ongoing struggle between state and federal authorities and sets a precedent for how National Guard deployments may be handled in future political disputes. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
