The Haitian Pulse warns: This is more than a lawsuit — it’s a battle for local power, civil rights, and immigrant safety
By The Haitian Pulse Editorial Team | June 10, 2025
In a sharp rebuke to federal overreach, the State of California has filed a lawsuit against former President Donald Trump for deploying National Guard troops to Los Angeles without the consent of Governor Gavin Newsom. The deployment came in response to escalating protests over aggressive immigration enforcement, but California leaders say the federal government created a crisis where there was none — using force as a political weapon.
A Dangerous Power Grab
The lawsuit, filed in federal court in San Francisco, argues that Trump’s June 7 order violates the U.S. Constitution and ignores the governor’s authority as commander-in-chief of California’s National Guard.
“This is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism that threatens the foundation of our republic,” Governor Newsom posted on X.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta echoed the concern during a press conference, stating:
“There was no rebellion, no invasion, and no legal grounds for this level of militarized response.”
Instead, Bonta described it as yet another example of the Trump administration abusing emergency powers to bypass state leadership — this time using peaceful immigration protests as a pretext.
The Trump Doctrine: Send in the Troops
Over the weekend, at least 300 National Guard troops and 700 Marines were deployed to the Los Angeles area. Trump defended the decision, claiming it was necessary to protect federal property and enforce immigration laws.
But to California leaders and immigrant advocates, this was a chaotic escalation — a chilling display of muscle meant to silence voices demanding justice.
“We had the situation under control,” said L.A. Mayor Karen Bass. “Sending troops was reckless and unnecessary.”
The Haitian Pulse View: We’ve Seen This Before
For immigrant communities, especially Haitians and other Black migrants, this episode rings alarm bells. History has shown us what happens when federal power is allowed to operate unchecked: families separated, rights suspended, voices silenced. We know what it means when immigration enforcement becomes militarized — and we’ve seen the trauma it leaves behind.
This is not law and order. This is fear as policy.
Federal Law vs. State Rights
Trump's legal team invoked Title 10, a federal statute allowing the president to activate the National Guard under certain conditions. But critics argue this does not override state authority without legitimate cause — and certainly not without gubernatorial approval.
“The president can deploy the Guard if there’s a rebellion or an invasion. Neither is the case here,” said AG Bonta.
The lawsuit insists that the Defense Department and Trump’s team “unlawfully bypassed” California leadership — and asks the court to immediately stop the troop deployment.
California: Ground Zero for the Resistance
This isn’t California’s first legal fight with Trump-era policies. Since 2020, the state has filed over two dozen lawsuits challenging the administration on immigration, environmental protection, and civil rights. Now, the focus turns to defending its authority — and its people.
Governor Newsom warned that this move could pave the way for similar deployments in other states, effectively dismantling the balance between federal and state powers.
“This isn’t just about California,” he said. “This is about the future of our democracy.”
What This Means for the Haitian and Immigrant Communities
The message from The Haitian Pulse is simple: we must stay vigilant. When protest becomes a pretext for occupation, we all lose. When local leaders are stripped of power, communities of color are the first to pay the price.
The streets of Los Angeles may be the battleground today — but this fight touches all of us.
We Want to Hear from You
Are you in Los Angeles? Do you have loved ones affected by ICE or National Guard presence? Do you fear this may spread to other cities with large Haitian and immigrant populations?
👇 Share your story below. The Pulse belongs to the people.
The Haitian Pulse stands with communities under pressure. We speak truth to power, amplify marginalized voices, and defend the rights of all who call this country home. Let’s stay alert. Let’s stay united. Let’s stay free.
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