The Trump administration has announced plans to federalize 300 members of the Illinois National Guard. This announcement came from Democratic Governor JB Pritzker on Saturday, following communication from the Pentagon. The exact deployment details have yet to be confirmed, though there is a growing concern regarding potential troop involvement in Chicago.
Governor’s Reaction to Federalization
Governor Pritzker expressed strong opposition to the federalized deployment. He stated, “It is absolutely outrageous and un-American to demand a Governor send military troops within our own borders and against our will.” According to a spokesperson from the governor’s office, no further information was available regarding the deployment.
The White House and the Pentagon have not responded to requests for clarification on this issue. This federal move parallels similar actions seen in other areas of the United States.
Similar Deployments Across the U.S.
- Los Angeles: Federal troops were deployed over the summer in response to ongoing unrest.
- Washington D.C: A federal law enforcement initiative has also been implemented.
- Memphis, Tennessee: National Guard troops are expected to assist local police.
California Governor Gavin Newsom previously initiated legal action against the federal deployment in Los Angeles, receiving a temporary court block. The Trump administration has since appealed this decision, with the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals indicating that it appears the government may win the case.
Concerns Raised by Governor Pritzker
Pritzker criticized Trump’s Illinois deployment as a “manufactured performance.” He believes that this action diverts the National Guard from their regular duties and families. The governor claims that Trump’s intentions do not focus on safety but rather on control.
Additionally, reports highlight growing tensions around the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Broadview facility near Chicago. Last Friday, 13 individuals were arrested during protests against heightened immigration enforcement.
Oregon Deployment
Trump has also federalized 200 National Guard troops in Oregon. However, reports indicate that they have not yet moved into Portland, with training happening along the coast in anticipation of further action. Local officials have raised concerns regarding the nature of the deployment, with legal actions taken to prevent these troop movements.
As events unfold, state and local officials will likely continue to respond to the federal government’s actions amid ongoing tensions across the country.
