National Guard Troops Withdrawn from Chicago and Portland Amid Legal Challenges

Tue Nov 18 2025 01:59:08 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Hundreds of National Guard troops stationed in Chicago and Portland are being sent home following legal disputes regarding their deployment under the Trump administration. This move marks a shift in military presence under the current administration's immigration crackdown.

The U.S. Northern Command announced the gradual withdrawal of National Guard troops from Chicago and Portland, Oregon, as legal challenges continue over their domestic deployment. Around 300 troops will stay in Chicago for training, and a smaller contingent will remain in Portland. Critics argue that the deployments violate states' sovereignty, while the administration insists on maintaining a presence in these cities.

National Guard troops stationed in Chicago and Portland, Oregon, are set to return home amid ongoing legal challenges regarding their deployment under the Trump administration. Defense officials revealed on Monday that hundreds are being withdrawn, with only a limited number remaining in their respective cities.

The announced withdrawal reflects a broader troop adjustment in response to legal battles surrounding the deployment order initiated by President Trump as part of a controversial immigration enforcement initiative targeting cities with Democratic leadership.

The U.S. Northern Command has stated that although troops will be pulled back, there will be a 'constant, enduring, and long-term presence in each city.' Specifically, about 200 troops from California currently in Oregon and 200 from Texas in Chicago are among those returning home. A smaller group of about 100 will remain in Portland for training purposes.

In total, around 300 Illinois National Guard members will remain stationed in Chicago for training but are currently restricted from operating under the Department of Homeland Security.

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the illegal deployment of troops, expressing relief that the withdrawal is finally occurring. The response to Trump's order has been further complicated by lawsuits filed by impacted cities, including Chicago, which argue that the federal deployments violate state sovereignty and legal standards for military actions.

In Portland, a federal judge recently issued an injunction against the deployment, stating the Trump administration failed to justify the legal basis for the military presence. The administration's appeal of this ruling reflects the contentious nature of these actions.

As the holiday season approaches, the change in troop deployment is significant, especially with increasing scrutiny over the military's role in domestic affairs under the current administration. While the National Guard has been involved in various operations, their expanded role in civilian matters—particularly immigration enforcement—has stirred considerable controversy.

Notably, some troops were also sent to Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., in previous enforcement actions earlier this year, highlighting the administration's reliance on military support for domestic law enforcement initiatives.