In a stunning legal twist, a federal appeals court has ruled that former President Donald Trump can maintain control over the National Guard in California, indefinitely blocking Governor Gavin Newsom’s bid to reclaim authority. The unanimous decision from a three-judge panel, which includes two Trump appointees and one Biden appointee, has escalated tensions amid ongoing protests in Los Angeles.

The ruling comes after Trump deployed the National Guard without Newsom’s consent on June 7, citing a need to protect federal property during violent protests linked to immigration enforcement actions. Newsom argued that the presence of the Guard only exacerbated tensions, while Trump’s legal team claimed the situation demanded immediate federal intervention.

This legal showdown is far from over. Experts anticipate that the case will likely reach the Supreme Court, as Newsom weighs his options for appeal. The stakes are high: a loss could set a dangerous precedent regarding state versus federal authority over the National Guard.

The court’s decision highlights a critical divide in the current political landscape, with implications stretching far beyond California. The ruling suggests that Trump’s justification for deploying the Guard was deemed credible, although the court also rejected the administration’s claim that its actions were beyond judicial review.

As protests continue to unfold in Los Angeles, the situation remains volatile. Local law enforcement has reported over 1,000 arrests, raising questions about the necessity of federal troops in the area. With both sides gearing up for a potential Supreme Court battle, the clash over control of the National Guard is poised to ignite further controversy in an already fraught political climate. Stay tuned as this story develops.