Trump plans to federalize 300 Illinois National Guard troops amid protests

In the United States, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker stated that the Trump administration intends to federalize 300 members of the Illinois National Guard due to escalating tensions surrounding protests and federal operations, primarily in Broadview, Illinois. The events began with an ultimatum given to Pritzker by the Department of War, demanding that he voluntarily deploy the National Guard or face federalization of the troops. Pritzker criticized this move as outrageous and un-American, arguing that it was an attempt by the Trump administration to exert control under the pretext of maintaining public safety during ongoing clashes between protesters and federal agents. The situation intensified as local authorities reported numerous arrests and violent encounters between protesters and law enforcement, including an incident where a woman was reportedly shot during federal operations. Pritzker highlighted that state and local law enforcement have been effectively managing the situation without the need for military presence. He described the Trump administration’s actions as a manufactured performance aimed at political control rather than genuine safety measures. U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth also condemned the federalization of the National Guard, labeling it a misuse of military resources. Duckworth emphasized that the National Guard members are part of the local community and should not be placed in a situation where they are deployed against the citizens they are meant to serve. Furthermore, she accused federal agents of unnecessary aggression toward protesters, stating that federal law enforcement has acted violently even against journalists covering the protests. Overall, the prospect of federalizing National Guard troops has heightened tensions between state leadership and the federal government, reflecting broader national disputes over law enforcement tactics and responses to civil unrest. Governor Pritzker vowed to prioritize the constitutional rights and safety of Illinois residents over the Trump administration's directives and maintain local control in responding to ongoing protests.