Trump Administration Appeals Chicago National Guard Deployment Block
The Trump administration has appealed to the Supreme Court seeking to overturn rulings by Chicago-area judges that blocked the deployment of National Guard troops to the city. The appeal centers on the administration’s claim that federal immigration agents require protection from opposed protesters while enforcing U.S. immigration laws.
The administration argues that conditions outlined in federal law authorizing presidential deployment of the National Guard - inability to “execute the laws of the United States” or facing “a rebellion or danger of rebellion” – are met in Chicago. solicitor General D. John Sauer, in a 40-page appeal, asserted that protesters are actively hindering the work of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and other federal personnel. He cited instances of federal officers being physically assaulted, struck with objects like fireworks, bottles, and rocks, and exposed to tear gas. The administration claims over 30 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officers have been injured, with some requiring hospitalization, specifically at the Broadview facility.
U.S. District Judge April Perry previously issued a restraining order on October 9th, disagreeing with the administration’s assessment. Judge Perry found no ”danger of rebellion” and stated that federal laws were being enforced, accusing the administration of exaggerating claims of violence and conflating protests with riots. The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals later upheld the restraining order.
The administration points to a previous Supreme court-backed deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles as precedent. They argue that deployment in Los Angeles led to a decrease in violence, despite initial concerns from California officials that it would escalate the situation.Sauer contends the President historically has broad authority to determine when to deploy the militia and that judicial review should be minimal.
Illinois officials, though, attribute the protests to aggressive enforcement actions undertaken by ICE agents.
The Supreme Court has requested a response from illinois officials by Monday. The administration is seeking an immediate order to freeze Judge Perry’s rulings while the appeal is considered.
