U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to deploy National Guard troops to California has ignited a legal and political firestorm, as state officials challenge the federal government's authority to intervene in local protests. The move follows days of demonstrations against immigration raids, which Trump characterized as potentially "rebellious" actions interfering with federal law enforcement.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth mobilized 700 active-duty Marines on Monday, escalating tensions. California Governor Gavin Newsom swiftly filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, calling the troop deployment "unlawful" and demanding the return of state National Guard control.
Legal experts are divided on the application of the 1807 Insurrection Act, which permits federal military deployment for domestic law enforcement under specific conditions. The confrontation highlights growing friction between state autonomy and federal power in crisis management.
Business analysts warn the instability could impact California's tech and agricultural sectors, while civil rights groups express concerns about precedent-setting military involvement in civilian protests. The case is expected to test constitutional boundaries as it moves through federal courts.
