California has filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump after he made the controversial decision to federalize the state’s National Guard, a move aimed at addressing anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protests in Los Angeles that escalated into riots.
Led by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta, the state claims that President Trump has overstepped his constitutional authority, violating the 10th Amendment. The lawsuit argues that Trump’s actions were in violation of federal law meant to address situations of ‘invasion’ or ‘rebellion’ and that they undermine state sovereignty.
Governor Newsom expressed strong disapproval of the president’s actions, stating, “Donald Trump is creating fear and terror by failing to adhere to the U.S. Constitution and overstepping his authority. This is a manufactured crisis to allow him to take over a state militia, damaging the very foundation of our republic.”
Newsom also emphasized the importance of solidarity among governors of all political affiliations, calling Trump’s federalization of the National Guard an outrageous overreach. He argued that it represents a dangerous precedent and a threat to democratic principles, asserting, “We will not let this stand.”
The tensions arose after ICE conducted several raids across Los Angeles on Friday. In response, violent protests erupted in Paramount, which subsequently led to riots and chaos. President Trump reacted swiftly by initiating federal control of the California National Guard, marking the first time since 1965 that a president has taken such action without a governor’s approval. This historic precedent dates back to President Lyndon Johnson’s deployment of troops to protect civil rights marchers in Alabama, contrary to the wishes of then-Governor George Wallace.
Attorney General Bonta was unequivocal in his condemnation of Trump’s actions, declaring, “Let me be clear: There is no invasion. There is no rebellion. The President is trying to manufacture chaos and crisis on the ground for his own political ends.”
Bonta reiterated that the federalization of the National Guard constitutes an abuse of presidential authority and noted that California is seeking judicial intervention to halt what they describe as an unlawful and unprecedented order.
In contrast, President Trump dismissed the lawsuit during a Monday press conference, suggesting that many officials in California are actually relieved by his intervention. He stated, “If we didn’t do the job, that place would be burning down.” Trump referenced previous unrest, claiming that past inaction allowed destruction in cities like Minneapolis.
“You’re destroying the fabric of our life in this country now. We did the right thing,” Trump added, seemingly asserting that his actions were necessary for the safety of California residents.
As the situation continues to develop, California officials have expressed concerns about the implications of increased federal immigration enforcement in the area. Representative Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.) reported that she received indications of significant immigration enforcement efforts expected in Los Angeles for the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, Trump has hinted at the possibility of arresting Governor Newsom, following remarks from border czar Tom Homan, which elicited a stern response from Newsom. He tweeted, referring to Trump’s suggestion, “This is a day I hoped I would never see in America. I don’t care if you’re a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation — this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism.”
As legal battles unfold and tensions rise, California’s lawsuit against the Trump administration represents a significant clash over state versus federal authority, with deep implications for governance in the United States.
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