In a legal action taken on June 9, 2025, California, represented by Attorney General Rob Bonta and Governor Newsom, is suing President Trump over his decision to federalize the California National Guard without a state request. The state argues that this unprecedented deployment is an abuse of presidential authority and a violation of state sovereignty, marking a significant stand against authoritarian overreach.

Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta have filed a lawsuit challenging President Trump's attempt to federalize the California National Guard without state consent. In the suit, they argue that the federal takeover violates the California Constitution by usurping the governor's authority as Commander-in-Chief and misusing federal power for political ends. The lawsuit seeks to restore state control and protect the Guard’s ability to support state emergencies and local law enforcement.

On June 8, 2025, California National Guard troops were deployed in Los Angeles under President Trump’s order, despite strong objections from state leadership including Gov. Newsom. The operation, marked by heavy military presence and aggressive tactics, has been criticized as an overreach that undermines state sovereignty and facilitates repressive measures.

Bay Area elected leaders and community groups decried the deployment of California National Guard troops to Los Angeles by the Trump Administration, arguing that the move bypassed state authority and served as a tool for suppressing immigrant protests.