Illinois National Guard

Illinois National Guard Members Vow Not to Turn Against Neighbors

Two Illinois National Guard members have publicly stated they would refuse federal orders to deploy in Chicago as part of a controversial immigration enforcement mission. The guardsmen, a state legislative candidate and a congressional candidate, expressed concerns about being used against their community and questioned the legality of the orders. They both stated they would not obey orders, and they are facing retaliation for their statements, including a suspended security clearance and death threats. A federal judge has delayed the deployment until further notice, but the soldiers warn this is a dangerous precedent that could lead to further militarization of American cities.

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Pritzker Says Trump to Federalize Illinois National Guard, Faces Resistance

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker reported that the Trump administration informed him of plans to federalize and deploy 300 Illinois National Guard members within the state. Pritzker strongly condemned this action, stating there was no need for military troops and that he would not comply with the demand. This news followed the President’s authorization of National Guard deployment in Portland, Oregon, where a federal judge is considering a lawsuit challenging the deployment. Trump’s actions are part of a broader trend of deploying or threatening to deploy troops to various cities, including Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., facing legal challenges and criticism.

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