The Last Time a U.S. President Bypassed a Governor to Deploy the National Guard: A Look Back at 1965

In March 1965, a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement unfolded in Alabama. Tensions ran high as people prepared for a significant march from Selma to Montgomery. President Lyndon B. Johnson faced a heavyweight political foe in Governor George Wallace, who staunchly supported segregation. Out of concern for the safety of the protesters, President Johnson made a bold move: he decided to deploy the National Guard without the governor’s consent. This was a rare use of executive power, typically reserved for situations where local authorities are overwhelmed.

Fast forward to recent events. In Los Angeles, in response to protests against immigration policies, President Trump took a similar step. He directed the California National Guard to move into the city to help manage clashes between protesters and federal immigration officers. A White House spokesperson criticized California officials for not doing enough to protect citizens, while Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the move as unnecessary and provocative.

Historically, presidents usually work alongside governors during civil unrest. For example, during the 1992 Los Angeles riots, then-President George H.W. Bush coordinated with the state’s leaders in a show of solidarity. In contrast, during Hurricane Katrina in 2006, President George W. Bush refrained from federalizing the National Guard because the local governor objected.

So why do these actions matter? The deployment of National Guards can reflect the political climate and highlight tensions between state and federal authorities. In both cases, the involvement of the National Guard aimed to ensure safety but raised questions about governance and the balance of power.

In recent years, social media has amplified discussions around these actions. Tweets and posts reveal mixed opinions; some view it as necessary for safety, while others see it as an overreach of power. Understanding this history helps shed light on the intricate relationship between state and federal governance in critical times.

As we reflect on these events, it’s clear that the decisions made by leaders can have profound impacts on civil rights and community safety. Historical context fosters a deeper understanding of today’s political landscape and the continued struggle for equality. You can learn more about the National Guard’s role in these events from trusted sources like the Council on Foreign Relations.

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Federal-State Relations (US),Presidential Power (US),Demonstrations, Protests and Riots,Civil Rights Movement (1954-68),Immigration and Emigration,Reserves (Military),National Guard,Alabama,Johnson, Lyndon Baines,Wallace, George C,Trump, Donald J,Los Angeles (Calif)