California Governor Opposes Federal Deployment of State National Guard to Oregon

President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of 300 California National Guard members to Oregon following a federal judge's temporary block on deploying Oregon's own guard to Portland. California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the deployment on Sunday and expressed strong opposition, labeling it "a breathtaking abuse of the law and power." He further stated, "The commander-in-chief is using the U.S. military as a political weapon against American citizens." Newsom pledged to challenge the decision in court.

The California National Guard referred inquiries to the Defense Department, which declined to comment. The White House has not issued an official statement regarding the deployment.

This development follows U.S. District Judge Karin Immergut's recent order temporarily blocking the federal government's plan to deploy the Oregon National Guard in Portland. Judge Immergut, appointed by President Trump, cited concerns over state sovereignty and the adequacy of local law enforcement in handling the protests. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in Portland has been the focal point of nightly demonstrations.

In a related move, President Trump authorized the deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard troops to Chicago on Saturday to protect federal officers and assets.