In a bold legal challenge, Washington, D.C., has taken the Trump administration to court over the deployment of National Guard troops in the nation’s capital. District Attorney General Brian Schwalb says the move infringes on local autonomy and basic freedoms.
Schwalb announced on X that “We are suing to block the unlawful deployment of National Guard troops to D.C.” The lawsuit argues that a forced military presence violates the Home Rule Act, which grants the district authority to govern itself.
President Trump issued an executive order on August 11, initially sending 800 Guard members to help restore order and ensure public safety. Six Republican-led states later contributed additional personnel, bringing the total deployment to more than 2,000 troops stationed across D.C.
This challenge follows a recent court victory in California, where a judge found the administration in breach of a 19th-century law barring soldiers from civilian law enforcement. District Judge Charles Breyer ruled the use of National Guard troops in Los Angeles last June was unlawful.
Schwalb warns that the military occupation not only undermines civil liberties but also dampens the local economy by depressing key sectors such as restaurants, hotels and tourism. The administration counters that the increased presence has helped drive down violent crime in the district.
As the case moves forward, observers around the world are watching how the balance between federal authority and local self-rule plays out in one of the nation’s most symbolic cities.
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Trump administration sued over D.C. National Guard deployment
cgtn.com
