Trump Triumphs Over Newsom in Ninth Circuit Ruling on National Guard Control

In a striking decision from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals on Thursday, President Donald Trump secured a unanimous victory, retaining authority over National Guard troops stationed in Los Angeles. This ruling overturns a lower court’s order that sought to return command to California Governor Gavin Newsom, marking a significant moment in federal-state power dynamics.

The court’s decision hinges on the president’s lawful exercise of authority under 10 U.S.C. § 12406(3), which allows federalization of the National Guard when regular forces are insufficient to uphold U.S. laws. The judges rejected Newsom’s claim that such decisions are immune from judicial scrutiny, emphasizing that Trump’s move, while bypassing the required notification to the governor, did not violate his executive powers.

This clash, the first of its kind since 1965, underscores the tension between state and federal control over military resources. Trump, celebrating the ruling on Truth Social, called it a 'BIG WIN' for national security, taking a swipe at Newsom’s leadership and framing the decision as a triumph for law-abiding Americans. The court’s stance signals a broader precedent: when local forces falter, the federal government can step in decisively.

While the ruling strengthens presidential prerogative, it also raises questions about the balance of power and the role of governors in safeguarding their states’ autonomy. As cities grapple with rising challenges, this decision could reshape how protection is delivered across the nation.