President Donald Trump suggested that his border czar, Tom Homan, should arrest Governor Gavin Newsom amid escalating tensions between the federal government and California. Trump’s call for Newsom’s arrest came after the governor challenged the administration’s deployment of National Guard troops to address violent protests against immigration raids in Los Angeles. Newsom condemned Trump’s statement, calling it a dangerous move towards authoritarianism that transcends party lines.
Homan, a former acting head of ICE, had previously hinted at the possibility of arresting state and local officials hindering federal agents. Newsom defiantly responded to Homan’s threat, daring the feds to arrest him. However, Homan, despite being a career law enforcement official, likely lacks direct arrest powers, being on the White House payroll.
While Trump has the legal authority to federalize California’s Guard troops, enabling them to support ICE and Homeland Security personnel, direct involvement in civilian law enforcement requires invoking the Insurrection Act. As of now, Trump has not invoked this act during the unrest in Los Angeles. The administration’s move to federalize Guard troops extends beyond California, aiming to bolster immigration enforcement efforts.
The clash between Trump’s administration and California highlights the growing divide between state and federal authorities on immigration policies. The situation underscores the complex legal and political dynamics at play, as both sides navigate the boundaries of federal and state powers in addressing contentious issues like immigration enforcement.