Trump Deploys National Guard to Portland and Chicago Amidst Legal Challenges
In a move intensifying the conflict between the federal government and local authorities, President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon, and Chicago, Illinois. This decision comes despite legal challenges and strong opposition from state and local officials who view it as an overreach of federal power.
Bypassing Legal Obstacles in Portland
President Trump circumvented a judicial block by deploying members of the California National Guard to Portland. This follows a federal judge's recent decision to prevent the federalization of Oregon National Guard troops for intervention in the city. The court cited concerns about state sovereignty and the absence of a justifiable threat of insurrection as reasons for the injunction.
Refusing to comply with the court's order, Trump ordered the mobilization of 300 members of the California National Guard. These troops were already federalized in response to protests in Los Angeles in June and were quickly dispatched to Oregon.
California Governor Condemns Federal Action
California Governor Gavin Newsom has strongly criticized the federal government's decision, announcing plans to pursue legal action. In a statement reported by NBC News, he condemned the move as a "flagrant abuse of law and power" and an "unacceptable disregard for the rule of law." He accused the Trump administration of "brazenly attacking justice, treating judges – including those appointed by the president himself – as political adversaries."
Chicago Under Federal Pressure
Alongside the controversial deployment in Oregon, Donald Trump has also authorized the deployment of 300 National Guard troops to Chicago, citing "out-of-control crime." The city joins Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Memphis, and Portland on the list of cities targeted by federal deployments. According to the BBC, these decisions have consistently been made despite strong opposition from local authorities.
White House Justifies Deployments
The White House defends these actions as a legal measure to "protect federal property and personnel in Portland after violent riots and attacks against law enforcement." Abigail Jackson, a presidential spokesperson, accused Gavin Newsom of "supporting violent criminals who are destroying Portland and other cities."
Trump's Stance on Immigration and Crime
Since returning to the White House, Donald Trump has prioritized combating illegal immigration as a central focus of his term. He claims the United States is experiencing an "invasion" of "criminals from abroad," justifying increased deportations and the use of force.
Source: Le Point
