DGA Statement on President Trump Deploying National Guard Troops in Oregon and Illinois

DGA Statement on President Trump Deploying National Guard Troops in Oregon and Illinois

Today, DGA Chair Kansas Governor Laura Kelly released the following statement in response to Donald Trump deploying National Guard troops in Oregon and Illinois:

"It is appalling that Donald Trump continues to disregard the executive authority of our nation's governors as Commanders in Chief of their National Guards. His decision to deploy the National Guard in Oregon and Illinois over the objection of their states' governors - just as he did in California and has threatened to do in other states - is a blatant abuse of power and an attack on state sovereignty. It also creates a chilling effect on our local communities and businesses and undermines the important mission of our service members.

"National Guardsmen are citizen-soldiers. They are our neighbors and coworkers who volunteer to defend national security and respond to natural disasters - not to be used as political pawns. It's time for this Administration to trust local law enforcement, stop wasting resources needed for true emergencies, and put an end to this chaotic federal interference in our states' National Guards once and for all."

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