Washington, D.C., filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Thursday over the deployment of National Guard troops in the capital.
The case, brought in federal court, asks for a court order to block the deployment. Officials argue the move is unconstitutional and violates federal law.
“Armed soldiers should not be policing American citizens on American soil,” said D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb in a statement on X. He added, “The forced military occupation of the District of Columbia violates our local autonomy and basic freedoms. It must end.”
Since returning to the White House in January, President Donald Trump has sought to expand the military’s role within the United States. Critics warn this is a dangerous use of executive power that risks creating conflict between soldiers and civilians.
Last month, Trump deployed National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., saying their presence was needed to “re-establish law, order, and public safety.” He also placed the Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control, further escalating the dispute.
