In a high-stakes hearing this week, a federal judge questioned the legality of former President Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard to manage civil unrest in Los Angeles. The judge expressed concern that the move may have overstepped constitutional boundaries by placing military forces under federal command during an internal state disturbance.
During arguments, the judge highlighted potential conflicts with the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits federal military involvement in domestic law enforcement. Attorneys for the defense argued that the deployment was justified under an emergency powers clause, intended to assist local authorities overwhelmed by the riots.
Opposing counsel countered that invoking those powers without explicit state consent could undermine the traditional balance between state and federal authority. The judge stated he would need to scrutinize the specific legal framework that authorized the action, including requests—or lack thereof—from California’s governor at the time.
No immediate ruling was issued, but the scrutiny marks a pivotal moment in assessing the limits of federal military power in responding to civil disturbances. Observers say the outcome could redefine future protocols for using the National Guard during domestic crises.