California Challenges Trump Use Military in Immigration Raids

California Challenges Trump Use Military in Immigration Raids

Trial Tests Limits of Presidential Authority

A landmark non-jury trial opened in San Francisco before U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer to decide whether the federal government violated the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878, which bars military involvement in civilian law enforcement. The case centers on President Donald Trump’s June deployment of 700 Marines and 4,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles during unrest tied to mass immigration raids.

State Leaders Oppose Federal Action

California Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta argue the deployment was meant for political theater and public intimidation. They claim the National Guard has been accompanying immigration agents on raids and assisting in arrests, actions they say are illegal under federal law.

Military Officials Testify on Threat Assessments

Major General Scott Sherman, who commanded military operations in Los Angeles, testified that internal intelligence assessments found little risk to federal property or personnel before a July 7 immigration operation. He said a Department of Homeland Security official questioned his loyalty after he initially denied a request for assistance. The deployment was later approved by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Court Questions Deployment Despite Low Risk

Judge Breyer pressed Sherman on whether troops could still be deployed without a significant threat, to which Sherman replied they could. The administration also presented accounts of violent protests, including Molotov cocktails and damage to federal buildings, to justify the initial troop presence.

Troops Still Active in Los Angeles

While many troops have been withdrawn, about 300 National Guard members remain on duty in Los Angeles, participating in immigration operations and restricting civilian movement. The administration has extended their activation through November 6.

Legal Outcome Could Set Precedent

California’s lawsuit seeks to return control of its National Guard to the state and have the court declare Trump’s actions illegal. The ruling will not impact his separate plan to send National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., where the president has direct control.

“California Challenges Trump Use Military in Immigration Raids” “California Challenges Trump Use Military in Immigration Raids”