A federal appeals court has allowed the federalization of National Guard troops in Illinois but told the federal government that those troops can’t be deployed while the case makes its way through the courts.
The order from the lower court blocking the deployment of troops remains in effect through next Thursday, October 24, at which point U.S. District Judge April Perry may extend it.
Federal lawyers have argued that troop deployment is necessary to protect immigration agents and federal properties. They’ve further claimed Illinois is in a state of “rebellion” — a sentiment rejected by the state’s lawyers and by Perry.
Their arguments stand in contrast to comments made by Trump and others in his administration who have said sending the National Guard to Chicago is necessary to reduce crime in the city. Long-standing federal law prohibits using the military for domestic law enforcement.
