According to the Illinois attorney general’s office, “The American people should not live under the threat of occupation by the United States military, particularly not simply because their city or state leadership has fallen out of a president’s favor.” The filing names President Donald Trump, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll as defendants, alleging serious and irreparable harm.
The White House maintained the actions were lawful, with spokeswoman Abigail Jackson stating that Trump was exercising his authority to protect federal officers and assets in response to ongoing violent unrest, criticizing state leaders for failing to act.
Meanwhile, a federal judge in Oregon issued temporary orders blocking the deployment of federalized National Guard troops from California to Portland, citing long-standing traditions against government overreach and military intrusion into civil affairs.
The Illinois lawsuit argues that the federalization of the National Guard, including troops from other states, infringes on state sovereignty, threatens social stability, and risks economic harm by disrupting businesses and tourism. The state and city are seeking a judicial declaration that the federal deployment is unconstitutional and unlawful, challenging the administration’s authority over local governance.
