Legal Challenges Arise as Troops Are Deployed to Quell Los Angeles Protests

In an uncommon move involving the use of military forces on U.S. soil, President Trump directed the Pentagon on Saturday night to dispatch a minimum of 2,000 National Guard members to Los Angeles in response to protests triggered by immigration enforcement operations.

Throughout his political career, Mr. Trump has frequently contemplated employing military personnel domestically to suppress violent demonstrations, combat crime, and search for undocumented immigrants—a strategy his advisers dissuaded him from pursuing during his initial term. After his presidency, he expressed willingness to act without state governors’ approval if reinstated.

This recent order marks a notable advancement toward that approach, though it stops short of invoking the broadest powers the president might claim. The unfolding situation on the ground—and potential legal battles—remain uncertain.

Below is an analysis of the key legal and policy considerations surrounding this deployment.

Details of the Presidential Directive

The president federalized the National Guard troops, placing them under direct federal command. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was authorized to deploy these forces to shield immigration enforcement personnel, facilities, and operations from protester interference. The White House justified the action by citing recent demonstrations against Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in Los Angeles.

The order mandates the deployment of at least 2,000 National Guard troops for a minimum of 60 days. Additionally, Mr. Hegseth was granted authority to call upon regular federal military units to support the federalized National Guard contingent if deemed necessary.

Typically, National Guard units are state-based forces composed largely of part-time service members with civilian occupations. Control of these units usually resides with each state’s governor, who can mobilize them to address emergencies or civil disturbances. However, federal law permits the president to assume command of a state's National Guard under specific conditions.