Judge Blocks Deployment of National Guard to Chicago

A federal judge issued a temporary order to prevent President Trump from deploying National Guard troops to Chicago. The ruling paused the federalization and deployment of U.S. National Guard units within Illinois for at least two weeks.

This action came after a lawsuit filed by the Illinois Attorney General, arguing that Trump’s plan to send 300 Illinois Guardsmen and an additional 200 volunteers from Texas to support federal immigration agents was unlawful and dangerous. The judge expressed skepticism about the threat level, stating, “I have seen no credible evidence of imminent rebellion in Illinois,” and questioned the administration’s justification for the deployment.

During the hearing, the judge emphasized that there was no evidence of rebellion or unrest severe enough to warrant such military action, highlighting that law enforcement and court systems remain operational. She added, “Deportations and arrests are ongoing, and federal laws are being enforced; there is no indication that the president cannot carry out these duties with regular forces.”

The Trump administration argued that the deployment was necessary due to violent protests at immigration facilities, including incidents such as ramming federal vehicles and placing bounties on officials. The Justice Department maintained that the president has the authority to deploy troops and that the protests pose a significant threat to federal authority.

The lawsuit accuses the federal government of overreach, labeling the deployment as unconstitutional. The judge supported this concern, asserting that allowing the National Guard in Chicago would likely escalate tensions and lead to civil unrest.

The Department of Homeland Security, overseeing immigration enforcement, did not immediately comment on the ruling. The judge plans to issue a detailed written order on the matter in the coming days.