A federal judge blocks President Trump’s constitutional authority to deploy National Guard troops to Portland.

Story Highlights

• Federal judge blocks Trump’s National Guard deployment to Portland, citing constitutional concerns
• Ruling prevents 300 California Guard troops from assisting with law enforcement operations
• Liberal governors celebrate victory while Trump administration prepares appeals
• Decision raises serious questions about presidential authority during domestic unrest

Judicial Overreach Blocks Presidential Authority

U.S. District Judge Karin Immergut issued an emergency restraining order late Sunday blocking President Trump’s deployment of 300 California National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon. The ruling came after Trump attempted to work around a previous court order that had blocked the federalization of Oregon’s own Guard units. Judge Immergut claimed the deployment violated federal statute and the Tenth Amendment, effectively neutering the president’s ability to respond to ongoing civil unrest that has plagued Portland for years.

For the second time, the Trump administration was blocked from deploying National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon. A federal judge appointed by Trump ruled there was no evidence the move is necessary. pic.twitter.com/sipwtys2VM

— DW News (@dwnews) October 6, 2025

Liberal State Officials Celebrate Federal Interference

California Governor Gavin Newsom and Oregon Governor Tina Kotek quickly celebrated the ruling as a victory against what they termed “Trump’s abuse of power.” Newsom’s administration joined Oregon in the lawsuit, demonstrating how blue state governors are willing to prioritize political opposition over public safety. Attorney General Rob Bonta criticized the administration’s “disrespect for the rule of law,” ironically while supporting a ruling that hamstrings legitimate federal law enforcement authority during a time when Portland continues to struggle with crime and disorder.

Constitutional Crisis Over Executive Powers

The ruling creates a dangerous precedent that restricts presidential authority during domestic emergencies. Trump’s move to deploy Guard troops was based on established federal statutes designed to protect federal facilities and restore order when local authorities prove inadequate. The judge’s interpretation of the Tenth Amendment effectively gives state governors veto power over federal law enforcement, undermining the president’s constitutional duty to ensure federal laws are faithfully executed. This judicial activism threatens to tie the hands of future presidents facing similar crises.

The Department of Justice has indicated plans to appeal the ruling, arguing that the president maintains clear statutory authority under federal law to deploy National Guard units for domestic law enforcement. Legal experts note that the statutes in question were specifically designed for extraordinary circumstances where local authorities cannot or will not maintain order.

Implications for Law and Order

This ruling represents a troubling trend of judicial interference in executive branch law enforcement decisions. Portland has experienced years of civil unrest, with federal property repeatedly targeted and local law enforcement overwhelmed. The court’s decision effectively prevents the federal government from taking necessary steps to protect federal facilities and restore order, potentially emboldening lawless elements who view this as validation of their actions. The restraining order remains in effect until October 19, leaving federal authorities with limited options to address ongoing security concerns.

The broader implications extend beyond Portland, as this precedent could be used to challenge future federal interventions in cities where liberal mayors and governors prioritize political posturing over public safety. Conservative legal scholars warn that such judicial activism undermines the separation of powers and weakens the executive branch’s ability to fulfill its constitutional obligations during times of crisis.

Watch the report: Judge blocks National Guard troops’ deployment in Oregon

Sources:

Federal judge blocks Trump’s National Guard deployment to Portland amid constitutional challenge – Fox News
California secures court victory: Trump cannot deploy California National Guard into Oregon – California Governor’s Office
California and Oregon sue Trump administration to block National Guard deployment to Portland – Oregon Public Broadcasting