Washington, DC, sued President Donald Trump’s administration on Thursday for deploying National Guard troops in the capital. The move deepened tensions between the Republican president and the city’s Democratic leadership.
Lawsuit Challenges Constitutionality
DC Attorney General Brian Schwalb filed the lawsuit in federal court, calling the deployment unconstitutional and unlawful under federal statutes. He argued that sending armed soldiers to patrol Washington’s streets violates the city’s autonomy and basic freedoms. Schwalb said on X that the “forced military occupation” must end immediately.
Trump Defends Action as Lawful
Trump deployed National Guard units last month, claiming they were needed to “re-establish law, order, and public safety.” He also placed Washington’s Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control. White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson defended the move, saying the president acted within his authority to protect federal assets. She dismissed the lawsuit as an attempt to undermine Trump’s successful crime-control measures.
Similar Clashes in California
This is not Trump’s first clash with local leaders over federalized troops. In June, he placed California’s National Guard under federal command despite Governor Gavin Newsom’s objections. A federal judge ruled on September 2 that using troops for immigration and drug operations in California was illegal.
Concerns of Federal Overreach
Trump has threatened similar measures in other Democratic-led cities, including Chicago. He frames these deployments as essential to tackling crime, even though local officials report declines in homicides and gun violence. Critics argue his actions dangerously expand executive authority, risking conflict between soldiers and ordinary citizens.
Legal Grounds for Challenge
The DC lawsuit asserts that deploying National Guard troops without Mayor Muriel Bowser’s consent breaches the Home Rule Act. It further argues the deployment violates the Posse Comitatus Act, which strictly limits military involvement in domestic law enforcement.
Also on TTI:
Iran has formally downgraded its diplomatic relations with Australia following a major dispute over alleged arson attacks in Sydney and Melbourne. The move comes as tensions escalate between Tehran and Canberra, marking one of the most significant strains in their bilateral relations in recent decades.
Reciprocal Diplomatic Measures
Iran’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that it had reduced Australia’s diplomatic presence in Tehran. The announcement followed Canberra’s decision to expel the Iranian ambassador last week. Iranian officials said the action was taken under international diplomatic norms, stressing that such a step was a direct response to Australia’s move.
