Letters from an American October 8, 2025
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Oct 9, 2025 This podcast dives into the federal activation of National Guard troops in Texas and Illinois amid claims of an emergency. It critiques the administration's portrayal of unrest in Chicago, suggesting a manufactured crisis. Topics include federal agents' violent actions against residents and journalists, and discussions around invoking the Insurrection Act. The episode highlights Trump's past declarations of national emergencies and explores the political narrative surrounding Antifa, challenging far-right interpretations. A deep look at the militarization of cities ahead of elections adds to the discussion.
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Federalized National Guard For ICE Protection
- The Defense Department federalized about 500 National Guard soldiers from Texas and Illinois to protect ICE and other federal agents.
- The troops were placed under federal command in a Title 10 activation citing extraordinary national authority.
Emergency Powers And Carl Schmitt Echoes
- The administration invoked Title 10 authority that allows federalizing the Guard during invasion, rebellion, or inability to enforce laws.
- Stephen Miller characterized this Title 10 power as plenary, echoing Carl Schmitt's emergency-power theory embraced by the radical right.
Federal Agents' Violent Actions In Chicago
- Journalists and local reports documented federal agents shooting and killing a Chicago resident and raiding an apartment, leaving residents bound outside.
- Subsequent information showed federal agents were often the aggressors despite initial government claims they were under attack.