Judge Questions Trump’s National Guard Deployment in Los Angeles

WASHINGTON – A federal judge expressed doubts regarding President Trump’s recent order to send thousands of National Guard troops to Los Angeles amid unrest related to anti-ICE protests.

During a session with U.S. Senior District Judge Charles Breyer, discussions took place between lawyers representing Trump’s Justice Department and California Governor Gavin Newsom after federal forces were assigned to support immigration enforcement officers.

“We’re discussing the president’s authority here, but it comes with limitations,” Breyer, who is the younger sibling of former liberal Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, remarked during the hearing.

“This is the distinction between a constitutional government and, say, King George.”

Brett Schmate, the DOJ’s Civic Director, challenged the characterization of Trump’s orders over the course of the hearing, asserting that the president had “delegated” command to a California auxiliary general, in line with legal standards.

He further contended that Newsom acted merely as a “conduit” for Trump’s directive, passing it to Defense Secretary Pete Hegses along the chain of command.

“There are no requirements for consultation or pre-approval,” Schmate stated. “We have the commander in chief overseeing the military.”

The California Attorney General’s office countered that allowing Trump’s actions without scrutiny risks potential overreach by the administration.

“The president can deploy the National Guard as needed,” argued Newsom’s attorney, “whenever there’s disobedience to an order.”

While Breyer struggled with the National Guard deployment issue, he seemed somewhat amenable to Trump’s plan to send around 700 U.S. Marines to assist in managing federal immigration efforts.

“I’m not quite sure what to do with Marines, or how to ensure transparency,” the judge remarked, questioning whether their involvement would breach the Posse Comitatus Act.

Breyer did not make an immediate decision but indicated he aimed to provide a ruling “quickly.”

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.