Consider This from NPR Can Trump call the National Guard into Chicago too?
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Aug 26, 2025 
Steve Vladeck, a Georgetown University law professor and expert in national security law, dives into President Trump's controversial claims about deploying the National Guard in cities like Chicago. He highlights the legal hurdles for federalizing the Guard in states compared to D.C., where the President holds direct command. While addressing public skepticism and constitutional constraints, Vladeck underscores the delicate balance between community safety and civil liberties, shedding light on the military's role in domestic affairs.
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Residents Doubt The Emergency Rationale
- Justina Wilkins-Jordan says she hears shootings and drug transactions in her D.C. neighborhood but distrusts the president's motives.
- Ryan Wong says this summer doesn't feel more violent than others and residents question the declared emergency.
D.C. Guard Is Uniquely Federal
- The D.C. National Guard is always under presidential control, giving the president broad authority there.
- That federal control is unique and does not automatically apply to state National Guards.
Federalizing State Guards Faces Higher Hurdles
- Sending state National Guard units elsewhere depends on different, stricter legal authorities than D.C.'s situation.
- Federalizing state National Guard forces would require specific factual predicates that may not be present and could invite litigation.