Judges have stalled President Donald Trump’s plans to deploy the National Guard in Chicago and Portland, Oregon, but troops are now patrolling in Memphis, Tennessee, with the blessing of the state’s governor.
The troops, dressed in Guard fatigues and protective vests, are patrolling near local stores and tourist attractions. The number of troops deployed to Memphis remains unspecified.
Trump has been exploring sending troops to various cities, including Baltimore; the District of Columbia; New Orleans; and Oakland and San Francisco in California. Officials state that the troops are supporting immigration agents and securing federal property.
The deployment in Memphis is under the command of Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, who advocates for tougher crime measures. Meanwhile, President Trump’s efforts to send troops to Chicago and Portland have met resistance from local and state leaders.
In Illinois, judges have ruled against sending troops to Chicago, calling the federal government’s actions unconstitutional. Federal judges have highlighted the long-standing norm against military involvement in domestic policing, referencing opinions from historical figures like Alexander Hamilton.
The situation in Memphis shows ongoing federal enforcement with significant operations reported since the task force began on Sept. 29, with major arrests occurring under this initiative.
