California National Guard Deploys to Oregon Amid Political Controversy

Fri Oct 10 2025 22:34:13 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Gavin Newsom challenges Trump’s use of military forces in state matters as 300 members of the California National Guard are deployed to Oregon after a court blocks a similar move by the state's authorities.

In a controversial decision, President Trump has ordered 300 members of the California National Guard to assist in Oregon following a federal judge's ruling, which blocked the deployment of state guard. California Governor Gavin Newsom has denounced the decision, promising to challenge it legally, claiming it to be an abuse of power. As protests continue in Portland, tensions between state and federal authorities escalate.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — In a dramatic escalation of tensions between state and federal authorities, President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of 300 California National Guard members to Oregon after a federal judge blocked similar efforts by officials in the state. Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed the deployment on Sunday, calling it 'a breathtaking abuse of the law and power.'

Newsom vowed to fight Trump's directive in court, framing the president's actions as politically motivated. 'The commander-in-chief is using the U.S. military as a political weapon against American citizens,' he stated, asserting that the public must not remain silent in the face of such governance.

The decision comes in the wake of ongoing protests in Portland against federal immigration policies, and those opposing the deployment argue that the situation in the city does not warrant military intervention. U.S. District Judge Karin Immergut, appointed by Trump, issued a temporary block on federal forces, stating the move could undermine Oregon's sovereignty.

The conflict between Newsom and Trump highlights stark divisions in American politics, particularly regarding the deployment of military forces in civilian situations. With protests against federal facilities continuing, Trump has labeled cities like Portland as 'war zones,' calling for strengthened federal presence to curb unrest.

The National Guard's deployment is being closely monitored, as it could serve as a precedent for future actions involving military forces in domestic affairs. As these developments unfold, both sides prepare for a legal battle that may fundamentally reshape the relationship between federal and state authorities.