Trump Administration Violates Federal Law by Using US Military in Los Angeles
Trump Administration Violates Federal Law by Using US Military in Los Angeles
In a ruling that could have far-reaching implications, a federal judge has declared that the Trump administration's use of the US military to carry out law enforcement activities in and around Los Angeles this summer was in violation of federal law. The ruling, passed on Tuesday, specifically names President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as being responsible for the illegal use of the military.
Background and Context
The use of the military in domestic law enforcement is a highly controversial issue, with many concerned about the potential for abuse of power and violation of civil rights. The Trump administration's decision to deploy military personnel to assist in policing protests in the wake of George Floyd's death sparked widespread condemnation and legal challenges.
The ruling by US District Judge Dolly Gee is seen as a significant rebuke of the administration's actions and a reaffirmation of the separation of powers outlined in the Constitution.
Implications and Next Steps
This ruling could have significant implications for the Trump administration's use of military resources for law enforcement purposes. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to federal law and respecting the boundaries set by the Constitution. As the case continues to unfold, it will be interesting to see how the administration responds and what actions will be taken to ensure compliance with the law in the future
About the People Mentioned
Donald Trump
Donald John Trump, born June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York, is an American businessman, media personality, and politician. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School in 1968 with a degree in economics. In 1971, he took over his family’s real estate business, renaming it the Trump Organization, through which he expanded into building and managing skyscrapers, hotels, casinos, and golf courses. Trump gained widespread fame as the host of the reality TV show *The Apprentice* from 2004 to 2015, which helped establish his public persona as a successful entrepreneur. Trump entered politics as a Republican and was elected the 45th president of the United States, serving from 2017 to 2021. His presidency was marked by significant policy actions including tax cuts, deregulation, the appointment of three Supreme Court justices, renegotiation of trade agreements (notably replacing NAFTA with the USMCA), and a focus on immigration control including border wall expansion. He withdrew the U.S. from international agreements such as the Paris Climate Accord and the Iran nuclear deal, and engaged in a trade war with China. His administration’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic was criticized for downplaying the virus’s severity. Trump was impeached twice by the House of Representatives—first in 2019 for abuse of power and obstruction, and again in 2021 for incitement of insurrection—but was acquitted by the Senate both times. After losing the 2020 election to Joe Biden, Trump challenged the results, culminating in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. He remains a central figure in American politics, having won the 2024 presidential election and returned as the 47th president in 2025, continuing to promote policies aimed at economic growth, border security, and military strength[1][2][3][4].
Pete Hegseth
Pete Hegseth is an American government official, author, and former television personality. Born on June 6, 1980, he graduated from Princeton University in 2003 and later earned a master's degree in Public Policy from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government in 2013[1][4]. Hegseth was commissioned as an infantry officer in the Minnesota Army National Guard, serving in Guantanamo Bay, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He received several military awards, including two Bronze Star Medals and the Combat Infantryman Badge[3][4]. After his military service, Hegseth worked with organizations such as Vets for Freedom and Concerned Veterans for America, where he served as executive director and CEO, respectively[1][7]. He became a contributor to Fox News in 2014 and later co-hosted *Fox & Friends Weekend* from 2017 to 2024[1][5]. Hegseth has written several books, including *American Crusade* and *The War on Warriors*, the latter being a New York Times bestseller[3][5]. In November 2024, Hegseth was nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to be the Secretary of Defense. He faced a contentious confirmation process, with allegations of misconduct and financial issues. Despite these challenges, Hegseth was confirmed by the Senate on January 25, 2025, with Vice President JD Vance casting a tie-breaking vote[1][2]. As Secretary of Defense, Hegseth has been involved in several significant events, including ordering budget cuts and firing top military officers to "focus our military on its core mission"[2]. He has also been at the center of controversy regarding the use of the Signal messaging app for sharing sensitive information[2]. In September 2025, Hegseth addressed senior military leaders, emphasizing the need for tighter fitness standards and opposition to certain policies he termed "woke garbage"[1].
George Floyd
**George Perry Floyd Jr.** was born on October 14, 1973, in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He grew up in Houston's Third Ward, where he was raised by his mother following his parents' divorce. Floyd was known as "Perry" to his friends and family, who described him as a "gentle giant" due to his height of 6 ft 4 in[1][3]. He excelled in sports, particularly football and basketball, during his high school years at Jack Yates Senior High School[4]. Floyd pursued a career in hip-hop, performing with DJ Screw and his Screwed Up Click under the name "Big Floyd," contributing to the popularization of the "chopped and screwed" style[4]. He also worked various jobs, including as a truck driver and nightclub bouncer, and was involved with a local Christian ministry to help his community[4]. However, Floyd faced challenges, including multiple arrests and a prison sentence for armed robbery[1][3]. On May 25, 2020, George Floyd's life was tragically cut short during an arrest by Minneapolis police. The event, captured on video, sparked widespread protests against police brutality and systemic racism, becoming a pivotal moment in the Black Lives Matter movement[1][2]. His death led to significant calls for police reform and racial justice, with his name becoming synonymous with these causes[5][6]. Today, George Floyd's legacy continues to inspire movements for racial justice and police reform. His story has been documented in books and exhibitions, highlighting the systemic issues faced by Black Americans and the impact of his death on the global conversation about racial equality[5][7]. Despite his tragic end, Floyd's life and legacy serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.