California Governor Gavin Newsom has taken significant steps, requesting federal intervention regarding the deployment of National Guard troops in Los Angeles. This request comes as President Trump is set to impose restrictions on their presence, which Newsom believes is urgently necessary.
By 1 PM Tuesday, Newsom sought an emergency ruling.
“The federal actions have already inflicted realistic and irreparable harm on Los Angeles, its residents, and the state of California with military personnel in the streets. This needs to stop immediately,” he stated.
Just a day earlier, Newsom and California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit against Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, claiming that the military’s presence, particularly in response to immigration protests, has escalated tensions. The Pentagon has also stationed 700 Marines in the area.
The case has been assigned to District Judge Charles Breyer, who was appointed by former President Clinton and is the brother of retired Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer.
In his request, Newsom asked the judge to prevent National Guard troops from conducting law enforcement activities beyond what is allowable on federal property.
Many of the most heated protests are occurring near key federal buildings in downtown Los Angeles, such as courthouses and detention facilities.
However, this ruling would limit the military’s involvement in law enforcement duties that are typically expected in such scenarios.
“The defendants, including President Trump and the Secretary of Defense, aim to introduce a military presence and a ‘warrior culture’ into our cities where families live, work, and learn,” the emergency motion stated. “Now they have shifted their focus to California, leading to serious repercussions and a precedent that could affect other areas across the nation.”
Newsom has requested Breyer to rule on this matter without waiting for a federal response, according to court documents.
“The defendants are opposing this process and have requested a minimum 24-hour period for the plaintiff to file a temporary restraining order while awaiting the defendants’ response. The court intends to review this matter promptly,” the filings indicate.
