Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Trump Cabinet members praise president at televised meeting while he appears asleep — At a televised Cabinet meeting on December 2, 2025, Trump's Cabinet officers praised the president as "brilliant" and a "miracle worker." Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised Trump as the only man who could end Russia's war in Ukraine while gesturing at the president, who appeared to be asleep. The meeting was designed to demonstrate that Trump is alert and active, but instead presented a visual of apparent presidential incapacity during a formal government proceeding.
• Trump cabinet meeting with public statements on military operations and policy — During a Tuesday cabinet meeting, President Trump made multiple public statements including claims about cognitive test performance, praise for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, assertions about ending wars and deserving a Nobel Peace Prize, denial of murders in Washington D.C., claims about inflation and prescription drug prices, and discussion of naval operations against drug trafficking vessels. Hegseth stated the U.S. has "only just begun" sinking "narco boats" and putting people "at the bottom of the ocean." Cabinet members discussed various policy matters while Trump mused about seizing partial company ownership.
• Trump held a Cabinet meeting during which he fell asleep for extended periods while making public statements. — Trump convened a Cabinet meeting in front of press and television cameras on December 2. During the meeting, his eyes were closed approximately 80% of the time during the final hour as he sat with two Band-Aids on his hand. He made various statements about tariffs, income tax, his health, cognitive fitness, Somali immigrants, and military strikes, while Cabinet officials took turns praising him. The meeting was conducted with the president visibly fatigued.
• Trump made statements claiming he is "sharper than 25 years ago" and claimed to have "aced" a cognitive test. — During the Cabinet meeting, Trump stated "I think I'm sharper than I was 25 years ago" and claimed he took a physical and "got all As. Everything." He also claimed he was offered a cognitive test, asked if it was hard, and stated "I aced it," adding that no president has ever agreed to take one. These claims were made while Trump was visibly fatigued and sleeping during the meeting.
• Trump struggled to stay awake during Cabinet meeting — During a Cabinet meeting, Trump struggled to stay awake, according to reporting. The incident raised questions about the president's fitness and stamina for the demands of the office.

Supporting reports

• White House claimed September 2 boat strike was lawful self-defense — White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that the administration believes the September 2 strike on a boat off Venezuela was lawful because it "was conducted in self defense to protect Americans and vital United States interests." This justification would permit the president or those acting in his name to be judge, jury, and executioner without regard to law. Leavitt attributed the orders to Admiral Bradley rather than Defense Secretary Hegseth.
• Trump administration announced formal armed conflict determination against drug cartels — The Trump administration announced that President Donald Trump has "determined" the United States is in a formal armed conflict with drug cartels and that individuals aboard targeted boats are formally designated "combatants." This determination was made without providing the legal authority required to support such a classification. The administration announced the strikes on September 4 and informed Congress to ensure it was "fully informed, consistent with the War Powers Resolution," but has since ignored that resolution's requirement for congressional approval for hostile actions continuing longer than 60 days, a deadline that passed in early November.
• Trump administration asserts formal armed conflict with drug cartels without legal authority — The Trump administration declared that President Trump has "determined" the U.S. is in a formal armed conflict with drug cartels and that individuals on targeted boats are formally "combatants." The administration notified Congress of strikes on September 4 under the War Powers Resolution, which requires congressional approval for hostile actions continuing longer than 60 days. That deadline passed in early November 2025, yet Trump has not sought or obtained congressional approval and has ignored the War Powers Resolution requirement. Legal experts have stated the operation lacks lawful foundation, as civilians engaged in trade—even illicit trade—are not enemy combatants under international law.

Supporting reports

• Pentagon launches investigation into Senator Mark Kelly — The Pentagon launched an investigation into Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) for "serious allegations of misconduct" in response to a viral video in which Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers urged military members to refuse illegal orders. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called the video "despicable, reckless and false." Kelly responded that intimidation would not silence him.
• FBI Counterterrorism Division opened investigation into six lawmakers — By November 25, 2025, the FBI's Counterterrorism Division notified Congress it was opening an inquiry into the six veteran lawmakers and requested interviews with all six members. The investigation was triggered by their one-minute video reminding service members of their legal obligation to refuse illegal orders—a principle codified in U.S. military law since 1950 and rooted in post-World War II Nuremberg principles. Legal experts confirmed the lawmakers were simply restating existing law and that their statement does not constitute sedition.
• Pentagon announced investigation of Senator Kelly and signaled possible recall to active duty — The Pentagon announced it is investigating Senator Mark Kelly, a retired Navy captain, and signaled it could recall him to active duty for possible court-martial over his participation in the video reminding troops of their legal obligation to refuse illegal orders. The threatened recall and court-martial of a sitting U.S. senator for restating military law represents an extraordinary use of military authority against a member of Congress.
• FBI contacts House and Senate regarding Democratic lawmakers' anti-Trump military video — The FBI contacted the House and Senate Sergeants at Arms requesting interviews with several Democratic members of Congress—Reps. Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, Chris Deluzio, and Chrissy Houlahan, plus Sen. Elissa Slotkin—after they filmed a video urging military troops not to follow illegal orders. The lawmakers characterized the FBI outreach as intimidation and harassment, with Sen. Slotkin stating that the President is "weaponizing the federal government against his perceived enemies."
• FBI counterterrorism division investigates Democratic lawmakers — The FBI's counterterrorism division launched an investigation into six Democratic lawmakers who appeared in a viral video calling on military members to refuse illegal orders. Four House members stated that the FBI contacted the House and Senate sergeant at arms to set up interviews. They accused Trump of "using the FBI as a tool to intimidate and harass members of Congress."
• Far-right figures call for investigation and deportation of Arab-Americans — In the days following the November 18 rally, far-right figures including Tommy Robinson, Wall Street Apes, and Sidney Powell used the Dearborn incident to call on the Department of Justice to investigate and deport Arab-Americans. These calls amplified the rally's narrative of victimhood and framed an entire ethnic group as a threat requiring federal action.
• FBI contacts Capitol Police to schedule interviews with six Democratic senators — Fox News reported that the FBI contacted US Capitol Police to schedule interviews with the six Democratic senators who released the video advising military personnel to refuse illegal orders. The interviews appear to be part of the broader investigation into the lawmakers' statements.
• Pentagon launches investigation into Senator Mark Kelly for video advising troops to refuse illegal orders — The Pentagon announced an investigation into Senator Mark Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers after they released a video advising military service members that they can refuse illegal orders and warning of "threats to our constitution" from within the administration. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called the video "despicable, reckless, and false." Trump characterized the senators' statement as "seditious behaviour" punishable by death. The Pentagon warned it could recall Kelly to active duty for court-martial under a federal law prohibiting military retirees from interfering with military discipline.

Supporting reports

• Vice President Vance claimed congressional reminders of Constitution are illegal — Vice President JD Vance stated that if the president has not issued illegal orders, then members of Congress telling the military to defy the president is by definition illegal. This statement contradicts the constitutional duty of military personnel to refuse unlawful orders and the right of Congress to remind them of that duty.

Supporting reports

• Rep. Jason Crow detailed Trump's threats to use military unlawfully — Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) appeared on CBS and detailed Trump's threats to use the military in unlawful ways, including sending troops into Chicago, into polling stations, killing terrorists' families, and shooting peaceful protesters. Crow stated that Trump cannot tolerate members of Congress reminding service members of their constitutional duty to obey the law and resorts to threats of violence and arrest.
• Pentagon announces investigation of Senator Mark Kelly for video calling troops to refuse illegal orders — The Pentagon announced an investigation into Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, a retired Navy captain, after he participated in a video with other Democratic lawmakers calling on US troops to refuse unlawful orders. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the video was "despicable" and that Kelly's conduct undermines military discipline. The Pentagon cited federal law allowing recall of retired service members to active duty for possible court-martial. Kelly responded that the investigation was meant to intimidate Congress and vowed not to be silenced.
• Defense Department announced investigation of Senator Kelly for alleged misconduct and threatened recall to active duty — The Defense Department posted on social media that it was investigating Senator Mark Kelly following "serious allegations of misconduct" and suggested that Kelly could be recalled to active duty "for court-martial proceedings or administrative measures." This announcement came after Kelly participated in a November 18 video with five other Democratic veterans in Congress warning military and intelligence personnel of their legal right and duty to refuse unlawful orders.
• Department of War initiated review of Senator Mark Kelly for potential court-martial — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced that the Department of War has initiated a review of retired Navy Captain Mark Kelly (D-AZ) for potential recall to active duty and court-martial proceedings. The review stems from a video Kelly made with five other Democratic lawmakers informing service members of their constitutional duty to refuse unlawful orders. The DOD statement cited 10 U.S.C. § 688 and 18 U.S.C. § 2387, which prohibits actions intended to interfere with military loyalty, morale, and discipline. Hegseth characterized the video as "despicable" and "seditious."
• Trump posted threats against Senator Mark Kelly — President Trump posted on social media that Senator Mark Kelly should be "arrested, hanged, and put to death" in response to Kelly's video encouraging service members to follow the Constitution and refuse unlawful orders. Kelly responded by reaffirming his oath to the Constitution and stating that Trump's threats would not intimidate him or other members of Congress from holding the administration accountable.
• Pete Hegseth orders Navy investigation into Mark Kelly's video comments — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a memorandum to Navy Secretary John Phelan on Tuesday ordering an investigation into "potentially unlawful comments" made by Senator Mark Kelly and fellow Democrats in a social media video encouraging military personnel to refuse unlawful orders. The Pentagon had already announced an investigation on Monday. Hegseth requested a brief by December 10. The group faces FBI counter-terrorism inquiry and potential court-martial proceedings.
• Defense Secretary Hegseth directs Navy review of Senator Kelly — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared a memo directing the Navy secretary to review Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) for "potentially unlawful conduct" related to the viral video where Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers urged military members to resist illegal orders. The memo requested the Navy review be completed and briefed to Hegseth by December 10.
• Defense Secretary threatens Senator with court martial over military dissent video — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth threatened Senator Mark Kelly with court martial after Kelly recorded a video with five Democratic lawmakers warning military members to question unlawful orders, apparently in reference to the Caribbean boat strikes. The threat represents potential retaliation against a senator for encouraging military personnel to uphold constitutional obligations.
• Secretary of Defense Hegseth threatens court martial of Senator Mark Kelly — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth threatened to court martial Senator Mark Kelly in response to Kelly's video urging military personnel to follow the law and refuse illegal orders. Hegseth called the video "sedition" and made deranged social media posts attacking Kelly's uniform and medals, later claiming Kelly's image was reversed by his phone. Kelly responded that the threat was about intimidation and the media cycle, not law, and refused to be silenced.
• Trump threatened to court-martial Senator Mark Kelly over military discipline video — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth threatened to court-martial Senator Mark Kelly after Kelly released a video with five other Democratic lawmakers urging military members not to follow illegal orders. The video was released in response to the alleged illegal directives issued by Hegseth regarding lethal operations.

Supporting reports

• Trump accuses Democratic lawmakers of sedition on Truth Social — Trump posted on Truth Social targeting six Democratic lawmakers who published a video urging military members to refuse illegal orders. Trump accused them of sedition "AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL" and stated they "SHOULD BE IN JAIL RIGHT NOW." He later shared a post calling them "traitorous sons of bitches" who should be "impeached and prosecuted."
• Trump demands arrest and execution of Democratic lawmakers for sedition — On Thursday, President Trump posted on social media that the Democratic lawmakers' video constituted "SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL" and demanded each lawmaker be "ARRESTED AND PUT ON TRIAL." In a follow-up post, he stated the behavior was "punishable by DEATH." Trump continued attacking the lawmakers over the following two days. The posts represent a sitting president calling for the arrest and capital punishment of elected members of Congress for speech he perceives as threatening to his policies.
• Trump invoked stolen 2020 election claim and labeled critics "traitors" — Trump reiterated the false claim that the 2020 election was "stolen" and attacked Democratic lawmakers, veterans, and former intelligence officials who reminded U.S. troops they cannot obey unlawful orders, calling these Americans "traitors." Trump's team reposted comments suggesting George Washington would have hanged such individuals.
• Trump posted calls for execution of Democrats for treason — Trump posted on social media that Democrats who told the military to disobey his orders should be executed for sedition, calling it "a major crime" and "sedition at the highest level." He made two additional posts at midnight Saturday repeating the accusation and claiming "many great legal scholars" agreed the Democrats had committed serious crimes.
• Trump accuses Kelly and other Democrats of sedition punishable by death — President Trump posted on Truth Social that Senator Kelly and other Democrats who participated in the video had engaged in "SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH" and reposted another user's message saying "HANG THEM." Kelly subsequently stated that Trump's language made him fear for his family's safety, particularly given his wife Gabrielle Giffords' prior assassination attempt in 2011.
• Trump Posts Calls for Senator Kelly's Arrest and Execution — President Trump posted on social media calling for Senator Mark Kelly's arrest, hanging, and execution in response to Kelly's participation in a video reminding servicemembers of their duty to refuse unlawful orders. The posts were part of the administration's escalating rhetoric against lawmakers who have questioned the legality of military operations, including deadly strikes on civilians in small boats near Venezuela.
• Trump calls for execution of Senator Kelly for advising troops on illegal orders — President Trump posted on social media that Senator Mark Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers "should be in jail right now" and characterized their video advising military personnel to refuse illegal orders as "seditious behaviour at the highest level, punishable by DEATH." Trump also republished a post containing the phrase "hang them." Kelly responded that Trump's threats were intended to intimidate Congress from holding the administration accountable.

Supporting reports

• Trump announced sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia despite Pentagon concerns — Trump announced the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia following multiple business deals between the Saudi global wealth fund and Trump Organization involving golf courses, hotels, resorts, and crypto ventures. The Pentagon had raised concerns that Saudi Arabia would allow China to steal the technology. The announcement came hours to months after the business deals were announced.
• Trump announced sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia over Pentagon objections — President Trump announced the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a decision made over objections from the Pentagon. Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI) defended the sale, stating that Trump is bringing countries into alignment with Western values and national security.
• Trump approves sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia — President Trump confirmed his intention to sell advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia at the same specification as those sold to Israel, overriding objections from Israel and concerns from U.S. intelligence agencies. The sale was announced during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's White House visit. Intelligence officials have expressed concern about Saudi Arabia's close security ties with China and the risk of technology theft.
• Trump designates Saudi Arabia as major non-NATO ally and dismisses Khashoggi murder — During Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's White House visit, President Trump announced the designation of Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally, a largely symbolic move conferring defense, trade, and security cooperation benefits. Trump dismissed the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi state operatives, claiming the crown prince "knew nothing about it" despite U.S. intelligence assessments to the contrary. Trump also announced plans to sell advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia and discussed a potential Saudi-Israel normalization deal.
• Trump administration grants Saudi Arabia "major non-NATO ally" designation and advanced weapons access — On November 18, 2025, President Trump met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House and granted Saudi Arabia the "major non-NATO ally" designation, providing access to joint Pentagon research, advanced weaponry, training, and loans. Trump agreed to sell Saudi Arabia 300 Abrams tanks and an unspecified number of F-35 fighter jets—a capability previously restricted to Israel in the Middle East. Trump also agreed to cooperate on civilian nuclear energy and provide access to advanced AI chips. The designation and weapons sales represent an unprecedented expansion of U.S.–Saudi military cooperation.

Supporting reports

• Trump stated he could invoke the Insurrection Act without judicial review — During the 60 Minutes interview, Trump stated that if he needed to send the Army or Marines into cities, he would do so "in a heartbeat" using the Insurrection Act, claiming "no judge can even challenge you on that. If I wanted to I could."
• Trump claims he can invoke Insurrection Act without judicial review — During a 60 Minutes interview, Trump said he would send the Army or Marines into US cities "in a heartbeat" and claimed no judge could challenge his invocation of the Insurrection Act if he did so.

Supporting reports

• Pentagon ordered National Guard to establish "quick reaction" forces in every state and territory by January. — The Pentagon issued orders to the National Guard to create specialized "quick reaction" forces in every state and territory by January, trained and equipped to respond to riots and civil unrest within the United States. Trump had directed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in August to establish these units. Memos were sent to state Guard organizations.

Supporting reports

• Trump announces federalization of National Guard and deployment to Democratic-led cities — During a speech in Japan on October 29, President Trump announced he is federalizing National Guard troops and deploying them into Democratic-led cities, stating the purpose is to "have safe cities." Trump also repeated false claims that the 2020 presidential election was rigged. When pressed by reporters, Trump referenced the Insurrection Act, claiming that if invoked, it would allow him to deploy military forces without court involvement, though the Act legally applies only during actual insurrection or rebellion.
• Trump said he would deploy Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines to US cities — Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he would be willing to deploy other branches of the military into US cities, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. Without naming the Insurrection Act, Trump said, "If I want to enact a certain act, I'm allowed to do it," adding that "I'd be allowed to do whatever I want" and claiming that "the courts wouldn't get involved."
• Trump stated he could deploy any military branch into American cities without court involvement. — When asked about his prior statement regarding sending "more than the National Guard" into American cities, Trump stated he was "allowed to do that" and could deploy the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines as he wished. Trump asserted that "the courts wouldn't get involved. Nobody would get involved" and that "I could send anybody I wanted."

Supporting reports

• White House demolition of East Wing began without National Capital Planning Commission approval — Demolition of the White House East Wing commenced on October 20, 2025, without formal submission to or approval from the National Capital Planning Commission, the federal agency statutorily required to review major construction and renovation projects on federal property in Washington, D.C. The East Wing, which housed First Lady offices for 48 years and served as a workspace for policy initiatives by multiple First Ladies, is being demolished to make way for a privately funded ballroom estimated at $250–$300 million. President Trump appointed Will Scharf, his White House Staff Secretary, to chair the Commission; Scharf argued the Commission has jurisdiction only over construction, not demolition, creating a procedural loophole.
• National Nuclear Security Administration furloughs 80% of workforce during government shutdown — The National Nuclear Security Administration announced it will furlough approximately 1,400 employees (80% of its workforce) starting Monday, October 20, 2025, due to exhausted carryover funding during the ongoing federal government shutdown. Only 375 essential staff will remain to handle critical safety operations including nuclear material monitoring, equipment maintenance, and reactor safety. The shutdown has now become the longest complete government-wide funding lapse in U.S. history, surpassing the 16-day 2013 shutdown. Most scientific research, stockpile maintenance, and global security programs will be suspended.
• Trump administration begins demolition of White House East Wing for $250 million ballroom construction — Construction crews began demolishing part of the White House East Wing to make way for a $250 million ballroom project announced by Trump in July. Trump announced on Truth Social that "ground has been broken on the White House" and stated the project would be privately funded with zero cost to taxpayers, though it involves unnamed donors and corporate representatives including Amazon, Apple, Meta, Google, Microsoft, Palantir, and Lockheed Martin. The project is expected to be completed by January 2029. Democratic congressman Mark Takano proposed legislation to prohibit federal funds for White House construction during government shutdowns.
• Trump administration begins demolition of White House East Wing without approval — Demolition crews began tearing down the East Wing of the White House to make way for Trump's 90,000-square-foot ballroom. The National Capital Planning Commission, which approves construction of federal buildings, has not signed off on the destruction. In September, the Trump-appointed head of the commission, Will Scharf, claimed the board has no jurisdiction over demolition or site preparation. As of the time of reporting, the White House had not submitted building plans to the National Capital Planning Commission.
• Trump bulldozes East Wing of the White House on October 20 — On Monday, October 20, President Trump began to bulldoze the East Wing of the White House, the People's House. The demolition of a historic structure symbolized the administration's disregard for institutional continuity and public property.
• Trump ordered physical destruction of White House East Wing to construct ballroom — Trump began demolition of the East Wing of the White House to make room for a ballroom styled after his Mar-a-Lago property. The work commenced on the date reported, representing a significant alteration to the historic structure. No congressional authorization or public process was described in the source material.

Supporting reports

• National Nuclear Security Administration furloughs 80% of workforce during government shutdown — The National Nuclear Security Administration announced it will furlough approximately 1,400 employees (80% of its workforce) starting Monday, October 20, 2025, due to exhausted carryover funding during the ongoing federal government shutdown. Only 375 essential staff will remain to handle critical safety operations including nuclear material monitoring, equipment maintenance, and reactor safety. The shutdown has now become the longest complete government-wide funding lapse in U.S. history, surpassing the 16-day 2013 shutdown. Most scientific research, stockpile maintenance, and global security programs will be suspended.
• Trump administration assembled interagency task force to purge the "Deep State" — Reuters reported that the Trump administration has assembled a wide-ranging interagency task force to carry out the president's directive to purge the so-called "Deep State." The group includes officials from the FCC, the FBI, the IRS, and other agencies. The task force represents a systematic effort to remove career civil servants and replace them with loyalists.
• Trump administration furloughed vast majority of civilian staff at National Nuclear Security Administration — The Trump administration sent furlough notices to the vast majority of civilian staff at the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), which is responsible for helping manage the country's nuclear weapons stockpile. The furloughs raised serious concerns about the continuity and security of nuclear weapons management during a period of heightened international tensions.
• Trump administration furloughed nuclear weapons stockpile management staff — The Trump administration sent furlough notices to the vast majority of staff at the agency responsible for managing the nation's nuclear weapons stockpile. Of approximately 1,775 total staff, 1,400 were furloughed, with only 375 retained for exempted work. The action occurred during the ongoing government shutdown.

Supporting reports

• Trump threatens use of Insurrection Act against American cities — On the morning of October 19, 2025, President Trump told Fox News Channel host Maria Bartiromo that he could invoke the Insurrection Act, stating "Don't forget I can use the Insurrection Act. Fifty percent of the presidents almost have used that. And that's unquestioned power. I choose not to, I'd rather do this, but I'm met constantly by fake politicians." He framed the threat in terms of ensuring "safety" in cities, implying military or federal force could be deployed against American civilians and local governments.
• Trump falsely claimed presidents have invoked the Insurrection Act 28 times and threatened to use it to deploy troops to cities — Trump stated he can "always use the Insurrection Act" to send more troops to U.S. cities and falsely claimed that one president invoked it 28 times. In reality, the Insurrection Act has been invoked only 30 times in over 230 years, with President Ulysses S. Grant invoking it six times. Trump specifically threatened to deploy National Guard troops to San Francisco and other Democratic-run cities, claiming they are "unsafe" and "disasters."

Supporting reports

• Trump administration seeks Supreme Court override of Illinois National Guard deployment block — The Trump administration's Justice Department filed an emergency petition with the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday requesting permission to deploy National Guard troops to Illinois, after lower courts halted the deployment. The administration claimed federal agents faced threats and assaults in Chicago and Broadview. A federal appeals court had upheld the lower court's injunction on Thursday. The administration has already deployed Guard units to multiple Democratic-led cities including Chicago, Portland, Los Angeles, Memphis, and Washington DC, framing military intervention as necessary for immigration enforcement and public order.
• Trump administration petitions Supreme Court to override Chicago ruling — Following the Seventh Circuit's affirmation of Judge Perry's block on national guard deployment to Chicago, the Trump administration filed an emergency petition with the Supreme Court requesting that the Court pause the lower court rulings and permit national guard deployment to Chicago streets.

Supporting reports

• Trump threatens to invoke Insurrection Act to sidestep court orders blocking Guard deployments — In response to recent court orders blocking military deployments, Trump and senior White House officials raised the possibility of invoking the Insurrection Act, one of the president's most powerful emergency authorities. The rarely used law allows the president to deploy military forces within the U.S. to suppress rebellion, domestic violence, or lawless behavior. The act is the primary exception to the Posse Comitatus Act. Trump stated in the Oval Office on Monday that he may invoke the act to sidestep court rulings blocking the dispatch of Guard troops, saying "It's been invoked before. We have an Insurrection Act for a reason."

Supporting reports

• Vice President Vance said Trump considering Insurrection Act invocation for National Guard deployment — On NBC's "Meet the Press," Vice President JD Vance said Trump is "looking at all of his options" to deploy National Guard troops in Democratic-led cities, including invoking the Insurrection Act. He noted that while Trump "has not felt like he needed to" invoke the Insurrection Act "right now," he also hasn't ruled out doing so.
• Trump threatens to invoke Insurrection Act to sidestep court orders blocking Guard deployments — In response to recent court orders blocking military deployments, Trump and senior White House officials raised the possibility of invoking the Insurrection Act, one of the president's most powerful emergency authorities. The rarely used law allows the president to deploy military forces within the U.S. to suppress rebellion, domestic violence, or lawless behavior. The act is the primary exception to the Posse Comitatus Act. Trump stated in the Oval Office on Monday that he may invoke the act to sidestep court rulings blocking the dispatch of Guard troops, saying "It's been invoked before. We have an Insurrection Act for a reason."

Supporting reports

• Pete Hegseth announced Qatari Air Force base at Mountain Home Airbase in Idaho — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the U.S. will accept a letter to build a Qatari Emiri Air Force facility at Mountain Home Airbase in Idaho, where Qatari military fighter pilots will train over U.S. airspace. The announcement drew immediate criticism from right-wing figures and commentators who questioned the national security implications and alleged connections to Trump's business dealings with Qatar, including a reported $5.5 billion golf resort project.
• Qatar Air Force base established at Mountain Home Air Base, Idaho — The Trump administration announced a new military partnership granting Qatar its own Air Force facility at Mountain Home Air Base in Idaho. The facility, called the "Qatari Emiri Air Force Facility," will host Qatari F-15s and pilots. This occurred during a U.S. government shutdown while troops remained unpaid and millions faced loss of health care.
• Pentagon permitted Qatar to establish military facility on U.S. soil in Idaho — On October 10, 2025, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced that the U.S. government will permit Qatar to establish a military presence on U.S. soil. The Qatari government will create a Qatar Emiri Air Force facility at Mountain Home Air Base in Idaho, which will host Qatari F-15 fighter jets and pilots who will train alongside U.S. troops. This announcement followed Qatar's May 2025 gift of a luxury 747 jet to the U.S. government and occurred within weeks of Trump's September 29 executive order elevating Qatar's security status to NATO-equivalent levels.

Supporting reports

• Pentagon orders national guards to form "quick reaction forces" for crowd control — A Pentagon directive signed by Maj Gen Ronald Burkett on 8 October ordered all 50 US states, DC, and territories to form "quick reaction forces" trained in riot control, including batons, shields, Tasers, and pepper spray. The memo sets thresholds requiring most states to train 500 national guard members (23,500 total nationwide) and cites Trump's August executive order authorizing rapid nationwide deployment to quell civil disturbances. Military trainers will deploy to every state; forces are to be operational by 1 January 2026. A separate Pentagon document mandates creation of a specialized military police battalion within the DC National Guard.
• Pentagon orders National Guard quick reaction forces for civil disturbances — On October 8, Major General Ronald Burkett, director of the Pentagon's National Guard bureau, issued an order requiring National Guard units in all states, U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia to form "quick reaction forces" trained in riot control. Most states must train 500 personnel each, totaling approximately 23,500 troops nationwide, with deployment readiness required by January 1, 2026. The order relies on an August 25 executive order signed by Trump directing the secretary of defense to ensure National Guard availability for assisting law enforcement in quelling civil disturbances.

Supporting reports

• Stephen Miller announced alternative federal deployment options — Stephen Miller stated that the administration would abide by the court ruling insofar as it affects the covered parties, but asserted that the president has "many options" to deploy federal resources and U.S. military to Portland. This statement suggested the administration would seek alternative legal pathways to deploy military or federal forces despite the court order.
• Trump officials discussed invoking Insurrection Act — NBC News reported that Trump administration officials have engaged in increasingly serious discussions about the president invoking the Insurrection Act, though a decision to do so wasn't expected to happen imminently.
• Stephen Miller claims president has plenary authority to use military against citizens — White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller stated in a CNN interview that the president possesses "plenary authority"—complete, unchecked power—to use the military to suppress what he characterized as an "insurrection." Miller abruptly stopped speaking mid-sentence after making this claim. The statement echoes arguments that exceptions to the rule of law reveal where true power rests in a society, a concept central to Carl Schmitt's political philosophy.
• Trump declared at least eight national emergencies since January 2025 — Since taking office in January 2025, the Trump administration has declared at least eight national emergencies, which it has used to justify the invocation of emergency powers for various policy objectives.
• White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller asserted "plenary" presidential authority under Title 10 — White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller claimed that the president's power under Title 10 to federalize National Guard troops is "plenary," or absolute. This assertion of unlimited executive authority was made in the context of the National Guard deployment to Illinois for ICE enforcement operations.
• White House officials discussed invoking the Insurrection Act to deploy military troops — White House officials, led by White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, have been having increasingly serious discussions about having Trump invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy military troops to suppress domestic unrest. The Insurrection Act permits the president to deploy troops to suppress insurrection, domestic violence, or unlawful combinations that obstruct the execution of federal law.
• Senate authorized executive deadly-force authority against drug cartels without congressional approval — The U.S. Senate voted 48–51 to permit the president to order deadly force against drug cartels without requiring congressional authorization. Two Republicans (Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski) opposed; one Democrat (John Fetterman) voted in favor. The article notes the authority has already been used in Caribbean boat strikes resulting in at least 21 deaths, and Congress has not been provided evidence that the targeted boats carried narcotics. The vote grants this power to all future presidents regardless of party.

Supporting reports

• Homeland Security Secretary vows additional troop deployment to Chicago — Kristi Noem, homeland security secretary, visited the ICE Broadview facility in suburban Chicago on Friday alongside border patrol sector chief Gregory Bovino. On Saturday afternoon, Noem posted on social media vowing to deploy additional special operations forces to Chicago, stating "I am deploying more special operations to control the scene. Reinforcements are on their way."
• Homeland Security Secretary announces expansion of ICE operations in Chicago and Portland — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that the department is "doubling down" on its immigration enforcement presence by purchasing additional buildings in Chicago and Portland for ICE operations. She stated the department would "not back off" and would expand operations to "more parts of Chicago" in response to local opposition.

Supporting reports

• White House authorizes deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard members — On Saturday afternoon, a White House spokesperson announced that Trump has "authorized" the deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard members. Governor Pritzker later stated he had been informed that members of the Texas National Guard would also be deployed to Illinois, further expanding federal military presence in the state without state consent.
• Trump issued presidential memorandum calling 300+ Illinois National Guard into federal service to protect federal personnel and property in Illinois — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum on October 4, 2025, directing the Secretary of War to call at least 300 members of the Illinois National Guard into federal service. The memorandum states that federal facilities in Illinois, particularly those supporting ICE and Federal Protective Services, have faced "coordinated assault by violent groups" seeking to obstruct federal law enforcement and impede deportations. Trump determined that regular U.S. forces are insufficient and that the situation warrants mobilization. The National Guard personnel are authorized to perform protective activities the Secretary of War deems necessary to ensure federal law execution, with a 60-day duration or at the Secretary's discretion.
• Trump authorized deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard troops to Chicago — Trump authorized the deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard troops to Chicago. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker called the move unnecessary and a "manufactured performance—not a serious effort to protect public safety," signaling state-level resistance to the federal deployment order.
• Trump administration deploys 300 California National Guard troops to Portland — On Sunday, October 5, blocked from deploying Oregon National Guard troops in Portland by Judge Immergut's ruling, the Trump administration deployed 300 California National Guard troops to Portland instead. California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the deployment, characterizing it as "a breathtaking abuse of the law and power" and stating the Trump administration is "unapologetically attacking the rule of law itself and putting into action their dangerous words—ignoring court orders and treating judges, even those appointed by the President himself, as political opponents."
• Trump administration deploys national guard troops to Portland despite judicial order — The Pentagon deployed 200 national guard members from California to Oregon on Sunday, and the Trump administration announced plans to send additional troops from Texas, directly after Judge Immergut's temporary restraining order. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek reported that 101 California national guard members arrived by plane on Saturday night with no formal federal communication and unverified locations. The administration proceeded without state authorization or coordination.
• Trump administration orders Texas national guard deployment to Illinois without state authorization — The Trump administration ordered 400 members of the Texas national guard to deploy to Illinois, Oregon, and other states without communicating with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. Texas Governor Greg Abbott stated he "fully authorized" Trump to deploy the troops. Chicago could see Texas troops deployed by Tuesday or Wednesday as the administration moves to federalize the Illinois national guard.
• Trump authorizes national guard deployment to Chicago — President Trump authorized deployment of 300 Illinois national guard troops to Chicago, citing "violent riots and lawlessness." The deployment follows a border patrol shooting of a woman on Chicago's southwest side during an operation where agents reported being rammed by vehicles. Governor JB Pritzker opposed the move, calling it unnecessary and stating the Pentagon issued an ultimatum to deploy troops or face federal deployment. The action occurs amid an intensified immigration enforcement crackdown by ICE in the city.
• Trump Authorizes Deployment of Illinois National Guard — President Trump authorized the deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard members to assist in protecting federal facilities, following a demand for the state to call up its troops. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker criticized this action as an overreach of federal power.
• Trump administration announces deployment of California national guard to Portland — Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell announced that approximately 200 federalized members of the California national guard were being reassigned from Los Angeles to Portland, Oregon at the direction of President Trump to support ICE and other federal personnel and protect federal property. This deployment occurred despite prior court orders and without state authorization, following Trump's September 27 announcement of plans to deploy guard troops to Portland.
• Illinois Governor Pritzker called Trump's National Guard deployment an "invasion" — Illinois Governor JB Pritzker stated that Trump ordered 400 Texas National Guard members for deployment to Illinois and other locations without any federal officials contacting him directly to discuss or coordinate the action. Pritzker characterized the deployment as "Trump's Invasion," noting it began with federal agents and would include federalized National Guard members against the state's wishes, and called on Texas Governor Abbott to withdraw support and refuse to coordinate.
• Texas Governor Abbott authorized National Guard deployment — Texas Governor Greg Abbott responded to Illinois Governor Pritzker's criticism by stating he fully authorized the President to call up 400 members of the Texas National Guard to ensure safety for federal officials, and argued that either other states must fully enforce protection for federal employees or allow Texas Guard to do so. Abbott asserted the superiority of Texas National Guard training and expertise.
• Trump administration federalized Texas National Guard for deployment to Portland and Chicago — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced the federalization of 2,000 Texas National Guard members, with 400 being deployed to Portland, Oregon and Chicago, Illinois. This action came immediately after a federal judge blocked the federalization of the Oregon National Guard, appearing to circumvent the court order by using troops from another state. The administration characterized this as a response to unrest in those cities.
• National Guard deployment to Chicago area begins — National Guard troops from Texas began arriving at Elwood Army Reserve Center, approximately 50 miles outside Chicago, as part of a Trump administration deployment. By Wednesday, 200 Texas National Guard troops had arrived with another 300 Illinois National Guard troops preparing to deploy. The FAA issued flight restrictions over the center until December 6. Trump administration officials stated troops would protect federal immigration agents and facilities, not assume law enforcement duties, though the deployment proceeded despite objections from Illinois Governor Pritzker and Mayor Johnson.
• Trump administration deploys national guard troops to Chicago area for immigration enforcement — The Trump administration deployed approximately 500 national guard troops (200 from Texas, 300 from Illinois) to the Chicago area to protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities and federal property. The deployment occurred without coordination with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker or Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. A federal judge held a hearing on whether to declare the deployment illegal, with state and city attorneys arguing it violates the Constitution. Trump attacked both officials on social media, saying they "should be in jail."

Supporting reports

• Trump called for removal of New York Attorney General Letitia James on Truth Social — On Truth Social, Trump called for the removal of New York Attorney General Letitia James, whom he called "SCUM" and a "Complete and Total Disaster." He also baselessly accused James of "costing New York State Hundreds of Billions of Dollars in lost business." This follows months of pressure from Trump against James, who brought a business fraud case against him in 2023.
• Trump called for jailing of Illinois Governor and Chicago Mayor — On Truth Social, Trump called for the jailing of Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, accusing them of "failing to protect" ICE officers. In response, Pritzker called Trump "unhinged," "insecure," and a "wannabe dictator," adding, "If you come for my people, you come through me. So come and get me."
• Trump calls for arrest of Chicago mayor and Illinois governor — On October 8, President Trump called for the arrest of Chicago's Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, both Democrats, accusing them of failing to safeguard immigration officers. The statement escalated Trump's rhetoric regarding the National Guard deployment dispute and represented a direct attack on state and local Democratic officials who had opposed the federal military deployment to their jurisdiction.
• Trump calls for jailing Chicago mayor and Illinois governor; National Guard deploys to Chicago area — President Trump called for the imprisonment of Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker on Truth Social, accusing them of failing to protect ICE officers. Simultaneously, National Guard troops from Texas began arriving at an army reserve center near Chicago at Trump administration order, despite objections from Illinois officials. Illinois and Chicago filed a lawsuit seeking to block the deployment, with a court hearing scheduled. Mayor Johnson signed an executive order barring federal immigration agents from using city property for enforcement operations.
• Trump calls for Spanberger withdrawal on Truth Social — President Trump posted on Truth Social calling Spanberger "weak and ineffective" and echoing Republican demands that she withdraw from the Virginia gubernatorial race over her continued support for Jay Jones despite the violent texts controversy.
• Trump calls for jailing Chicago mayor and Illinois governor over National Guard deployment objections — On October 8, 2025, as hundreds of National Guard troops were poised to enter Chicago against the objections of the city's Democratic mayor and Illinois governor, President Trump called for jailing both officials despite neither having been charged with crimes. The deployment was part of Trump's militarized immigration crackdown, which the Democratic leaders had criticized.
• Trump attacks Chicago and Illinois officials, calls for their imprisonment — President Trump sent social media posts attacking Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, both Democrats, saying they "should be in jail" for failing to protect federal agents during immigration enforcement operations. The attacks came as the administration escalated its presence in Chicago and announced plans to purchase additional buildings for ICE operations.
• President Trump posted that Chicago Mayor and Governor Pritzker should be in jail — President Trump posted on his social media account that the Chicago Mayor should be in jail for failing to protect ICE officers and that Governor Pritzker should also be in jail. The posts appeared to be retaliation for the officials' resistance to the National Guard deployment.

Supporting reports

• Secretary of Defense issues memorandum federalizing 200 Oregon National Guard members for 60-day deployment to Portland — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth issued a memorandum on September 28 stating that 200 members of Oregon's National Guard would be "called into Federal service effective immediately for a period of 60 days." The memorandum followed Trump's demand for military deployment to Portland, which he claimed was necessary to protect federal property and suppress lawlessness. Oregon's governor Tina Kotek stated she had been notified that the president had seized control of the state's reservists, invoking authority to suppress "rebellion" or lawlessness. City and state officials filed suit shortly thereafter to block the deployment.
• Hegseth called 200 Oregon National Guard members into federal service — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called 200 members of the Oregon National Guard into federal service for 60 days. This action followed Trump's repeated threats to deploy federal troops to Portland to address what he characterized as "domestic terrorism" and civil unrest. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek had explicitly told Trump and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem that federal troops were unnecessary and that the state could manage its own public safety.
• Hegseth federalizes 200 Oregon National Guard personnel — On September 29, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth federalized 200 National Guard personnel from Oregon under the stated purpose of protecting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal government personnel performing federal functions. The action followed Trump's directive and Oregon Governor Tina Kotek's public disagreement with Trump's characterization of Portland's security situation.

Supporting reports

• Trump posts directive to deploy troops to Portland — On September 27, Trump's social media account posted a directive to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to deploy troops to Portland, Oregon, to protect ICE facilities from what Trump characterized as attacks by "Antifa" and "domestic terrorists." Trump authorized "Full Force, if necessary." The post was based on Trump's assertion that Portland was a "war ravaged" city plagued by "anarchists" and "crazy people," claims contradicted by local officials and reporting.
• Trump directed troop deployment to Portland, Oregon — On September 27, Trump announced via Truth Social that he directed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to deploy troops to Portland, Oregon, which he baselessly called "War ravaged" and "under siege" by antifa. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson responded that "the number of necessary troops is zero, in Portland and any other American city." The deployment was presented without evidence of the claimed crisis.
• Trump directed military deployment to Portland with authorization for full force — President Trump posted that he was directing Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to provide troops to protect the ICE facility in Portland and "any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists," and authorized "Full Force, if necessary." The order came after Trump claimed the facility was under siege, but Senator Ron Wyden posted a video showing the ICE facility with no people present.
• Trump announced deployment of federal troops to Portland — Trump announced on Truth Social that he is directing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to deploy federal troops to Portland, Oregon at the request of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to protect against what he characterized as attacks by "Antifa" and "domestic terrorists." Trump authorized "full force, if necessary." Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson both rejected the deployment, stating there is no insurrection or threat to national security warranting military presence in the city.

Supporting reports

• Trump signed memo to deploy National Guard to Memphis — Trump signed a presidential memo to deploy National Guard troops to Memphis, Tennessee, to combat "tremendous levels of violent crime." The troops will join a special task force made up of officials from agencies including the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, ICE, and the US Marshals Service.