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Why did the judge block Trump's deployment of the National Guard?
Judge Karin Immergut ruled that President Trump exceeded his authority by deploying the National Guard to Portland, stating that the protests did not constitute a rebellion or pose a threat that justified military intervention. The court found that the administration's claims of lawlessness were unsubstantiated and that the deployment violated legal limits.
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What are the legal arguments against deploying the military to protests?
Legal experts argue that deploying the military in domestic protests can violate the Posse Comitatus Act and other laws that restrict military involvement in civilian law enforcement. Courts have also emphasized that such deployments require clear evidence of rebellion or insurrection, which was not present in this case.
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Could this decision impact future government responses to protests?
Yes, this ruling sets a legal precedent that limits the president's ability to deploy the National Guard or military forces without proper justification. It signals that courts may scrutinize and block such actions if they are deemed to exceed legal authority or infringe on civil rights.
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Is the Supreme Court likely to get involved in this case?
Given the significance of the case and its potential to influence future federal intervention in protests, it is possible that the Supreme Court will review the decision if the administration appeals. The case could become a landmark ruling on the limits of presidential power during civil unrest.
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What does this ruling mean for protests across the US?
The ruling emphasizes that peaceful protests must be protected and that military force cannot be used unless there is clear evidence of rebellion or violence. It reinforces the importance of lawful, peaceful civil demonstrations and limits the scope of government intervention.