National Guard Troops Deployed Outside Chicago, Memphis Operations Expected Amid Legal Disputes

National Guard troops from Texas have been deployed to Illinois near Chicago and may soon be sent to Memphis as part of President Donald Trump's aggressive policy to combat crime in major cities. In Memphis, local officials are preparing for the Guard's arrival, with troops expected to support law enforcement through visibility and deterrence rather than direct policing or arrests. Chicago and Illinois leaders have strongly opposed the deployment, filing lawsuits and accusing the Trump administration of using troops as political props, while the troops' specific mission remains unclear amid ongoing immigration enforcement efforts. Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson have criticized the deployment, which conflicts with local and state authorities, and a court hearing is pending regarding its legality. Despite the administration's claims, Chicago has seen significant reductions in crime, including a 31% drop in homicides this year. The situation highlights tensions between federal and local authorities over military involvement in domestic law enforcement, with President Trump considering invoking the Insurrection Act despite Posse Comitatus limitations.