A U.S. appeals court has determined that President Donald Trump can assume command of 200 Oregon National Guard troops, although he remains barred from deploying them at this time. The decision, made by a panel from the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, was issued on March 4, 2024, with a 2-1 ruling that temporarily lifts an earlier order restricting Trump’s command over the troops.
The court’s ruling comes amidst ongoing legal battles regarding the deployment of the National Guard. While Trump may take command, another ruling is currently in place that prohibits him from sending any Guard troops to Oregon. This restriction remains effective as the administration seeks to have it dissolved, arguing that the situation warrants a reassessment of the deployment order.
Oregon’s Attorney General has expressed intentions to contest the recent ruling further. He plans to request a broader panel of the appeals court to reconsider this decision, indicating a strong commitment to uphold state control over the National Guard.
The case highlights the ongoing tensions between state authority and federal command. Trump’s administration has frequently been at odds with various state leaders over the deployment and command of National Guard troops. This latest development adds another layer to the complex relationship between federal and state governance in the United States.
As this situation unfolds, the implications for the Oregon National Guard and the state’s relationship with federal authorities will be closely monitored. The outcome could set a significant precedent regarding the balance of power in military command and state autonomy.
