Trump Federalizes National Guard in Chicago as Troops Deploy to Oregon: What It Means for You

Portland and Chicago are bracing for the potential deployment of National Guard troops. This move comes as part of President Trump’s plan to send forces to U.S. cities he believes need help controlling crime and safeguarding federal officials.

Recently, the White House announced the deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard members to Chicago. Yet, a federal judge temporarily placed a hold on sending the Oregon National Guard to Portland. Meanwhile, troops from California have already arrived in Oregon. They will help protect federal property and personnel in areas deemed at risk for “violent demonstrations,” as stated in a federal memo.

In 2023 alone, National Guard units have been sent to cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. Trump is also considering sending troops to Memphis, supported by Tennessee’s Republican Governor, Bill Lee.

However, this plan has faced backlash from Democratic governors, including Tina Kotek of Oregon and JB Pritzker of Illinois. They argue the deployments are unnecessary and could heighten tensions. Pritzker expressed his anger on social media, feeling the administration was undermining state authority by demanding the troops be called up.

Critics highlight that despite Trump’s assertions of rising crime, statistics show crime rates have been decreasing in many cities, including Chicago. Nationally, violent crime dropped by 5% in 2022, according to the FBI’s annual report.

The National Guard’s role in these scenarios often raises questions about civil liberties. In past protests, many citizens have taken to social media to express their views on military presence in domestic settings, often using platforms like Twitter to voice concerns. The hashtag #NoTroopsInCities has gained traction during discussions on this topic.

A noteworthy recent incident involved the Border Patrol in Chicago, where officers shot a woman who allegedly drove at them during a confrontation. Fortunately, she survived and was taken into custody by the FBI.

In Portland, U.S. District Judge Karin J. Immergut halted the administration’s plans, stating that protests outside the ICE facility have been generally peaceful. She noted that the local police force is trained in crowd management and can enlist help if needed.

Despite the legal issues surrounding the deployments, Trump dismissed the judge’s ruling, suggesting it showed a lack of accountability. California Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed that troops were already en route to Oregon, emphasizing the need for judicial recourse against what he called reckless presidential conduct.

As tensions rise over these deployments, the debate continues over the balance between federal intervention and maintaining local control. The situation is fluid, with each day’s developments adding new layers to the ongoing discussion about public safety and civil rights.



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