National Guard Troops to Return Home from Portland and Chicago
Troop Deployment Details
A Defense Department official confirmed Saturday that hundreds of National Guard troops deployed from California and Texas to Portland, Oregon, and Chicago, Illinois, in response to protests over the Trump administration’s immigration policies will soon return to their home states. Approximately 200 federalized California National Guard soldiers were sent to Portland, while another 200 from Texas were dispatched to Chicago.
Legal Challenges and Federal Court Rulings
The White House justified the deployment, asserting that the troops were sent to “protect federal assets and personnel,” and invoked Title 10 of the federal code, which allows such action if the president perceives a “rebellion or danger of rebellion against the authority of the government of the United States.” However, federal judges have intervened, blocking the deployment of these federalized National Guard members to the streets of both cities. Lawsuits brought by city and state officials led to this legal stalemate.
Appeal to the Supreme Court
On Friday, the Trump administration appealed a ruling to the Supreme Court that had permanently barred the deployment of National Guard troops in Portland. In a related update, the number of federalized Oregon National Guard members is set to decrease from 200 to 100. Meanwhile, approximately 300 Illinois National Guard members will remain under federal control as part of the operation.
Ongoing Protests and Federal Responses
Protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (start) facilities in Portland and Chicago have been ongoing for several months. There has been significant local and state pushback against the federal troop deployments, with officials arguing these measures represent an unnecessary escalation of tensions. The Trump administration has also deployed National Guard troops to other cities, including Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and Memphis, citing safety concerns and the need to protect federal property.
Future Plans and Adjustments
Following the issuance of a statement by U.S. Northern Command, the Department of War (the preferred name for the Defense Department during the Trump administration) announced plans to “shift and/or rightsizing our Title 10 footprint” in Portland, Los Angeles, and Chicago. This adjustment aims to establish a stable and enduring federal presence in these cities amid ongoing protests.
For further updates on this ongoing situation, stay tuned.