The ruling permanently prevents the U.S. President Trump administration from deploying military forces to suppress protests against immigration officials, marking the first federal decision to limit the president’s use of troops in domestic law enforcement.

Court Limits Trump’s Authority To Send Troops

Immergut rejected the administration’s claim that the protests at the immigration detention center in Portland justified sending troops under the pretext of an “insurrection.” The judge noted that the president had misused emergency powers intended for genuine crises.

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield called the decision “a major victory,” stating, “The ruling confirms that the President cannot send the National Guard to Oregon without a legal basis.” Rayfield added on social media, “The courts are holding this administration accountable to truth and the rule of law.”

Portland Mayor Applauds Decision

Portland Mayor Keith Wilson praised the ruling, saying, “This decision validates Portland’s position and confirms the supremacy of law that protects our community.” Wilson told local media, “As I’ve said from the beginning, the number of federal troops needed in our city is zero.”

Case Challenges Presidential Powers

The City of Portland and the Oregon Attorney General had filed a lawsuit in September, arguing that the Trump administration exaggerated isolated incidents of violence to justify sending federal troops under a law that allows presidents to deploy forces during insurrections.

Trump’s repeated description of Portland as “war-torn” and claims of a violent siege of federal agents were rejected by the judge. Portland attorney Caroline Turco stated, “This case is about whether we are applying constitutional law or martial law.”

Appeal And Potential Supreme Court Review

The Trump administration is likely to appeal the ruling. Legal experts say the case could eventually reach the US Supreme Court and establish a key precedent defining the limits of presidential authority.