In Thursday’s remarks, Trump said Minnesota’s governor had “lost control” of the situation and accused state officials of being “either unwilling or unable” to restore order. He added that if local authorities did not “secure the streets,” he would “send in the military immediately.”
Escalating Tensions in Minnesota
Large demonstrations have roiled Minneapolis and surrounding communities throughout the week. On the same day as the president’s threat, the White House amplified its criticism, asserting that Democratic lawmakers and Governor Tim Walz bear responsibility for what officials described as “widespread lawlessness.” No timetable was announced for possible federal intervention, but aides confirmed that Pentagon planners had been instructed to prepare deployment options.
State leaders have countered that Minnesota National Guard personnel, working alongside local police, remain capable of handling the unrest. In a brief statement, a spokesperson for the governor said the administration’s focus is “de-escalation and community safety” and that “outside military involvement is neither requested nor necessary at this time.”
Procedure for Invocation
If Trump proceeds, the process would begin with a formal proclamation, traditionally read aloud or published, commanding demonstrators to disperse. After the proclamation, the president could issue an executive order directing the secretary of defense to move forces into the affected area. The law does not specify a maximum number of troops or a set duration for their deployment, leaving those decisions to executive discretion, constrained only by congressional oversight and potential court challenges.
Historically, the Insurrection Act has been used sparingly, often in response to significant civil unrest. Legal scholars in the ABC News Live segment noted that the statute provides “broad but not unlimited” authority, and that any deployment must be limited to situations where ordinary law-enforcement measures have proven inadequate.
Political Fallout
Republican allies praised the president’s stance, arguing that a show of federal force could deter further property damage and violence. Several Democratic legislators from Minnesota, however, warned that military intervention might inflame tensions and undermine efforts to negotiate with community leaders.
At the Pentagon, officials declined to discuss any operational specifics but confirmed receipt of a preliminary White House inquiry. A senior defense official said the department “will follow lawful orders” and that final approval would come directly from the president, in consultation with the secretary of defense and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
What Happens Next
The decision to invoke the Insurrection Act rests solely with the president, though state officials can formally request assistance. If Trump moves forward without such a request, he would need to certify that the unrest obstructs the execution of federal law or deprives citizens of constitutionally protected rights. Once troops are deployed, they would assume law-enforcement functions, including crowd control, protection of federal property and support to local agencies.
White House press secretary Karen Williams told reporters that the administration hopes state leaders will “restore peace independently,” but she added that “all options remain on the table.” Meanwhile, Minnesota officials said they continue to monitor demonstrations and will reassess security needs “hour by hour.”
No timeline has been announced for a final decision. For now, the possibility of federal troops patrolling Minnesota’s streets hinges on whether the state can calm protests without outside intervention and on whether President Trump concludes that conditions on the ground meet the legal threshold established by the Insurrection Act.
Crédito da imagem: ABC News Live
