CHICAGO (RTWNews) — President Donald Trump’s efforts to deploy the National Guard in cities led by Democrats—against the wishes of local leaders—has resulted in a myriad of court challenges and conflicting rulings.
As the U.S. Supreme Court considers the legality of the proposed troop deployments in Chicago, a federal appeals court is engaged in hearings concerning California Governor Gavin Newsom’s lawsuit aimed at blocking troop presence in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, troop deployment to Portland, Oregon, hangs in the balance as legal proceedings unfold.
Deployment Blocked in Chicago
A federal judge in Chicago has currently prohibited the deployment of National Guard troops to the city, extending a prior injunction by 30 days. The judge noted that ongoing discussions could alter the timeline should the Supreme Court intervene. A filing by the Trump administration indicates a desire for an expedited decision allowing deployment.
Solicitor General D. John Sauer cited the ongoing restraining order as causing irreparable harm to the Executive branch.
Legal Challenges in Other States
In Portland, a recent ruling from a 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel conveyed that Trump may take command of Oregon's National Guard, yet a separate ruling continues to bar actual deployment. In Los Angeles, the legal skirmishes are equally convoluted with a prior court finding that the administration acted unlawfully by sending troops amid protests surrounding immigration policies.
Further, state courts in West Virginia and Tennessee see challenges to the deployments initiated by the respective governors, reflecting a growing pushback against federal military action on domestic soil.
Next Steps
As the legal battles evolve, cities across the nation remain at the center of a contentious debate regarding the use of National Guard forces. Whether the legal objections will succeed in preventing deployment remains an ongoing question as judicial decisions await.
