President Donald Trump has deployed 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles in response to immigration protests, over the objections of Governor Gavin Newsom. This move is not the first time Trump has activated the National Guard to quell protests, as he did in 2020 during George Floyd protests in Washington, D.C.
Under federal law, the president can deploy National Guard troops under certain circumstances, including times of rebellion or unrest. However, the governor of the state typically retains control and command over the troops. Trump’s decision to federalize the troops is seen as a way to address “lawlessness” in California, but Newsom describes it as “purposely inflammatory and will only escalate tensions.”
The National Guard is a hybrid entity that serves both state and federal interests, often operating under state command and control. In this case, Trump’s decision places him at the top of the chain of command, despite Newsom’s objections.
Experts warn that the deployment could lead to limited roles for the National Guard troops, who cannot engage in ordinary law enforcement activities unless the Insurrection Act is invoked. This move raises concerns about the potential for troop deployments to be used as a precursor to more aggressive action.
Historically, the Insurrection Act has been used in times of emergency, such as during the Civil Rights era and natural disasters. However, Trump’s willingness to deploy troops on home soil has raised questions about his intentions and the limits of federal authority.
The deployment comes amid a broader debate over immigration enforcement and protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. The role of National Guard troops in this context is still unclear, but experts suggest that their presence could be seen as an attempt to exert control over law enforcement on the ground.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/insurrection-act-trump-troops-newsom-military-national-guard-a842f79e1c0e244039be274a6f266a7a