Appeals Court Rules Trump Can Keep Control of National Guard

The 9th Circuit Court ruled that the president likely had exercised lawful authority in taking control of the troops in response to riots in Los Angeles.

National Guard members stand guard outside the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building in Los Angeles on June 12, 2025. David Ryder/Reuters

A federal appeals court has ruled that President Donald Trump can maintain control of the California National Guard as a challenge to his federalization of the troops from Gov. Gavin Newsom continues to unfold in court.

In a June 19 decision, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Trump had exercised lawful authority in taking control of the guard in response to riots and protests in Los Angeles.