Signs of Authoritarianism: Expanding Use of the National Guard

In under a year, Trump has federalized the National Guard in Los Angeles, the District of Columbia, Chicago, Portland, and Memphis. The rapid expansion of federal forces in major American cities is both an infringement on the people's fundamental rights and a decline into autocracy. Today, Democratic Governor J.B. Pritzker claims Trump is planning to mobilize nearly 300 members of the National Guard into Illinois. The consequences of rampant federal action could be devastating for millions of people in marginalized communities. In Chicago, federal forces have already hurt protestors, people of color, and immigrants. Indeed, the Trump administration's abrasive actions must not escalate further.

Although Trump and his allies consistently claim their crackdown on crime is both necessary and effective, the evidence begs to differ. Take Portland, for example, President Trump called the city "war-ravaged" despite what city officials and residents see with their own eyes. In fact, the only instance of "chaos" is outside ICE facilities where non-violent protests take place. Yet, Trump's lies, underneath the deceit, have an ulterior motive. By painting a picture of "left-wing terrorism," Trump criminalizes dissent and decreases the general population's willingness to support resistance against harsh, inhumane immigration policy.

Throughout every city where federal troops have been deployed, the same playbook has been utilized. First comes the rhetoric, condemning dissent. Next comes dangerous action through the mobilization of hundreds of troops. As federal officers assist with Trump's immigration goals, the people of each city suffer at the hands of executive overreach. Instead of making our cities safer, the National Guard only adds fear to the lives of everyday citizens through severe policing. A D.C. judge describes the ongoing issue as a clear breach of constitutional rights with "people being arrested without cause, minor cases charged as felonies, and people left to suffer in jail for days or weeks."

Fortunately, local governments are fighting back in the courts. At the time of writing this article, a Portland federal judge has blocked President Trump's orders for the deployment of the National Guard. U.S. District Judge Karin J. Immergut, appointed by Trump, rationalized her decision by stating that recent protests have been largely peaceful. Moreover, the city of Portland, on Sept. 28th, filed a separate lawsuit against Trump's unlawful deployment. Combined, the state of Oregon is resisting against authoritarian moves made by the Trump administration. Moreover, wider attempts from cities all over the country are currently combating Trump's executive overreach through organized protests and free speech. Now more than ever, it is crucial to resist. Conceding demands, remaining complacent, and quitting dissent is exactly what authoritarians thrive on. Remember, resistance, in any way possible, is always the frontline defense against autocratic encroachment.

— Samyak Duggirala