President Donald Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom are in a heated disagreement over the deployment of the National Guard in response to ongoing riots in Los Angeles. This conflict centers around interpretations of a law from 1878 that typically restricts military involvement in civilian law enforcement.
The Posse Comitatus Act, signed by President Rutherford B. Hayes, was intended to keep military forces away from interfering in civilian matters, except in certain situations. Trump took action early Sunday by sending in the National Guard after reports surfaced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were attacked while performing their duties in L.A. With local leaders, including Newsom and L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, seemingly unable to take decisive steps to quell the violence, Trump authorized the deployment of 2,000 troops to restore order.
Newsom quickly opposed this move, arguing it violated state sovereignty and could escalate tensions. He expressed his concerns in a public message, highlighting that there was not a significant problem until the federal intervention occurred.
In addition to the National Guard, the Pentagon indicated it is prepared to send in 500 active-duty Marines if needed. Should the situation escalate requiring military enforcement, the historical Posse Comitatus Act will play a crucial role in determining what actions can be taken.
This legal framework allows for military action under certain conditions, such as a congressional decree or if a state fails to maintain law and order during an insurrection. As the situation unfolds, the focus will remain on public safety and the balance between federal authority and state rights.
