On 10/12, Federal Judge Charles Breyer rejected the Trump administration's argument that recent protests against immigration sweeps in Los Angeles, California, constituted an "insurrection". This ruling determined that the federal government lacked the legal basis to control the California National Guard and deploy the force to Los Angeles.

National Guard in Los Angeles, California on 14/6. Photo: AFP

Judge Breyer also dismissed the administration's argument that the court had no authority to review the President's decision to take control of a state's National Guard during an emergency. The judge characterized this position as an overly broad interpretation of executive power.

"The founders built our government as a system of checks and balances", the judge stated.

The White House has not yet responded to the decision, but an appeal to the Supreme Court is anticipated. Supreme Court justices have recently issued several rulings favorable to the Trump administration, often overturning lower court decisions.

The Trump administration announced in June its intention to place the California National Guard under its direct control, deploying approximately 4,000 troops to respond to protests against immigration enforcement actions.

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, criticized the federal government's move, calling it unprecedented and unlawful. Legal challenges concerning this issue have been ongoing for months.

Ngoc Anh (According to Reuters, Guardian)