In an ongoing tussle with the federal government over control of the National Guard, California's top officials are pushing back. As reported by the Governor's office, Governor Gavin Newsom, along with Attorney General Rob Bonta, is imploring a federal judge to undo the stay on California's challenge to the President's federalization and deployment of the National Guard, aiming to bring the troops back under state command ahead of schedule.
The urgency of the matter is compounded by the Trump administration's continued actions, which have not only commandeered the National Guard but have also dispatched troops to states like Oregon and Illinois without the consent of the local governors. In a recent statement, Governor Newsom condemned these deployments, stating, "The National Guard deserves better than being treated like Trump’s toy soldiers – and when they’re returned to California command, we’ll get them back to doing the real work they signed up to do."
California initially filed a lawsuit challenging the President's federalization of its National Guard after the Trump administration utilized an obscure statute to override the state's objections on June 7. This legal battle intensified when over a third of the California National Guard was put under federal control and deployed in a civilian law enforcement capacity in Los Angeles. Despite a federal judge deeming this deployment as a violation of the Posse Comitatus Act, the administration has appealed this ruling, shelving any immediate changes pending a higher judicial review.
Attorney General Bonta echoed the gravity of the situation, saying, "The Trump Administration believes it can keep California’s National Guard federalized and deployed wherever, forever, and for any purpose—no further justification necessary." California's leadership is steadfast, demanding action from the court and supporting the positions of other states under similar duress. Last month, the appeal courts ruled against the Illinois government by allowing federalized troops to remain mustered, although it upheld a prohibition against their deployment within the state. California has since expressed solidarity with Illinois through an amicus brief filed to the United States Supreme Court.
Despite these federal interventions, the California National Guard, under state direction, has engaged in various missions that reflect their intended community support roles. Last week, Governor Newsom ordered the National Guard on a humanitarian assignment to assist food banks across California. This effort is particularly pertinent given that the Trump Administration's actions and the congressional stalemate have caused delays in SNAP benefits to over 5.5 million Californians. Amidst these political entanglements, state officials are adamant about reclaiming control and serving the communities affected by these federal oversteps.
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