Declining Military Presence in Democratic Cities Amid Legal Battles

Fri Dec 05 2025 05:19:20 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The U.S. Northern Command announces troop withdrawals from Chicago and Portland as legal challenges question the legitimacy of these deployments under the Trump administration.

In a shift regarding domestic military involvement, the U.S. Northern Command has begun withdrawing National Guard troops from cities like Chicago and Portland, amidst ongoing legal disputes over their deployment. The reallocation of troops comes as arguments against their legal authority continue to mount, particularly in the context of immigration enforcement policies initiated by the Trump administration. Officials note that while some troops will be sent home, a limited presence will be maintained in each city, with training activities continuing.

In a notable shift in military strategy, the U.S. Northern Command has launched a withdrawal of National Guard troops from cities like Chicago and Portland, Oregon. This decision comes amidst ongoing legal battles that question the legitimacy of deploying these forces for domestic operations initiated by the Trump administration.

Recent statements indicate that the withdrawal will involve approximately 200 California National Guard troops in Oregon, while around 100 will remain for training purposes. Similarly, 200 troops from Texas currently in Chicago are being sent home, with about 200 remaining on standby.

The changes reflect a broader reconsideration of troop deployments in areas that have seen significant political and legal pushback against federal involvement in local issues, particularly in cities led by Democratic officials.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has criticized the deployment of troops, calling it an illegal measure by the Trump administration. This echoes sentiments across various Democratic cities that contend the federal government's actions violate state sovereignty.

Legal challenges continue to unfold, with a federal judge recently issuing a permanent injunction against troop placements in Portland, claiming that the administration failed to meet the necessary legal thresholds to justify such actions.

While the withdrawal signals a reduction in military presence, it is clear that the ongoing legal conflicts over troop deployment will remain a contentious issue, particularly regarding the militarization of responses to domestic social and immigration policies.