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The president has limited power to deploy National Guard in states like Illinois without the consent of the governor.
Vance noted that the Trump administration hopes to collaborate with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker on addressing crime in Chicago (PTI)
US Vice President JD Vance, currently on an official visit to Minnesota, addressed growing concerns over President Donald Trump’s recent comments about deploying the National Guard to Democratic-led cities, including Chicago. Speaking to reporters, Vance clarified that there are “no immediate plans” to send troops to the city.
This statement comes in direct response to President Trump’s remarks earlier this week, in which he signalled his intent to expand federal military operations to combat violent crime in cities run by Democratic leaders. While Trump did not provide a specific timeline, his comments suggested a readiness to act.
Vance, however, emphasised a more cautious and cooperative approach. “The president has said he has the legal authority to protect American citizens, whether that’s in Chicago or in Washington, D.C.,” the Vice President stated.
Although the president has unilateral authority to deploy the National Guard in Washington, D.C., his power to do so in states like Illinois is limited without the consent of the governor. This has raised concerns about a potential overreach of executive authority and the use of military force on domestic soil.
Vance noted that the Trump administration hopes to collaborate with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker on addressing crime in Chicago. Echoing Trump’s earlier statement, Vance said the administration wants the governor to formally request assistance if needed. “The president has said he has the legal authority to protect American citizens,” he reiterated.
However, Governor Pritzker swiftly rejected the suggestion. He criticised Trump’s remarks as “unhinged” and stated that he would pursue legal action should there be any attempt to deploy troops without state approval. Pritzker also argued that there is no justification for military involvement, citing city statistics that indicate a decline in homicides and gun-related violence.
“There isn’t an emergency that would justify sending troops to Chicago,” Pritzker said.
The disagreement underscores a growing tension between federal and state authorities over how to handle urban crime.
- Location :
Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)
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