Recent mobilizations of the National Guard in major U.S. cities mark a significant shift in its traditional role. Under President Trump, the National Guard has been deployed not just for humanitarian aid but also for law enforcement and immigration enforcement in various Democratic-led cities. This approach has drawn criticism and raised questions regarding the implications of such actions.
Understanding the National Guard’s Role
The National Guard, originating from the Massachusetts militia in 1636, serves dual purposes: state and federal missions. Generally, it operates under the jurisdiction of state governors, unlike the active-duty military, which functions under federal command. The use of the National Guard for domestic policing typically requires compliance with several legal frameworks, including the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts the military’s role in civilian law enforcement.
Organization and Leadership Structure
The National Guard consists of two main components: the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. The current chief of the National Guard Bureau, which oversees these components, is General Steven S. Nordhaus. Command of the troops currently deployed in urban areas is under General Gregory M. Guillot of the U.S. Northern Command. Troops can be activated for various missions, from disaster assistance to civil unrest management.
Current Deployments and Mobilizations
As of October 2023, the National Guard has mobilized troops for various operations across the country. Here are the key deployments:
- In June, 2,000 California National Guard members were sent to Los Angeles amid immigration protests.
- In August, troops were authorized for deployment to combat crime in Washington, D.C., even as crime rates declined in the area.
- In September, President Trump indicated potential deployments in cities like Chicago, Memphis, and New Orleans.
- As of October 1, approximately 2,200 troops were active in Washington, with over 950 coming from the D.C. National Guard.
Historical Context of Domestic National Guard Deployments
Historically, the National Guard has been mobilized domestically during times of crisis. Significant instances have included:
- Federal intervention for civil rights during the 1950s and 1960s, including desegregation efforts in Little Rock and Alabama.
- Deployment during riots in Detroit in 1967 and Los Angeles in 1992.
- Tragic events such as the Kent State shootings in 1970, which resulted in the death of four students during a protest.
Funding and Compensation for Mobilized Troops
National Guard troops receive state and federal funding. However, pay for those under federal orders can be affected by government shutdowns. Troops mobilized by governors are compensated by their respective state legislatures, while federal orders necessitate congressional funding approval for payment.
The evolving role of the National Guard under the Trump administration raises important considerations about the balance between military and civil authority. As more troops mobilize in urban areas, ongoing monitoring and dialogue regarding their deployment and purpose remain crucial.
