California Governor Gavin Newsom announced plans to pursue legal action against the Trump administration for what he termed illegal activities. He criticized Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, suggesting that he was unfit for his role, especially in the context of how the National Guard was being utilized.
During an interview with left-leaning YouTuber Brian Taylor Cohen, Newsom was asked about Hegseth’s potential as a leader. His response was measured, pointing out, “This man projects weakness while pretending to be powerful. I’m not even sure he’s actually holding any power. This group, including that Homan guy—they’re just a disorganized bunch, honestly.” He emphasized that this situation was serious, highlighting the risks it posed to people’s lives and the nation’s reputation.
Newsom elaborated on Trump’s calls for National Guard deployment, cautioning that it only sets a dangerous precedent for other cities. “This isn’t just about Los Angeles now,” he asserted. “This is about everyone watching, today and tomorrow. I assure you, Trump is indifferent to these issues.”
In a clip from the interview shared on social media, Newsom noted, “What he signs doesn’t only affect California; he could implement similar actions in any state. We’re taking him to court.”
White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt stated that President Trump had authorized a memorandum for deploying 2,000 National Guards to address the lawlessness that she claimed had been allowed to escalate.
Leavitt highlighted recent violent protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, stating these operations were vital to counter illegal activities. She urged Democratic leaders like Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass to acknowledge their duty to protect citizens.
“That’s why the President took this step, deploying those guards against growing disorder,” she said. “The administration has a strict stance against criminal actions, particularly when aimed at law enforcement doing their jobs. We ensure offenders are swiftly prosecuted.”
On Saturday, Newsom responded to Trump’s comments with a pointed remark about the actions taken against Homan, who has been a face of Trump’s border policies.
Trump, in turn, suggested that if he were in Homan’s position, he would understand the approach, expressing that he saw such actions as positive.
